Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all been there the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.

Rather than panic, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you will need an area that is stable, fob as well as an plier. Take the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it will turn.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important.

Spring pins and springs with pins

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that uses a key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.

Call us if you need assistance with your car key and repair keys or locks! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.

Gear selector

It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.

Most times the issue is fixable. The most common reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to make it in a couple of minutes.

In some cases the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to fix the gear selector Fob mechanism. They can also provide a range of other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates in the battery of your car will begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause you to lose the power source in your car and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign that you require a new battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.

You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a large grey or black head, it will have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.