Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your car keys repairs near me Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all been there - the car key won't turn in the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you are loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key problems and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you'll require a stable workspace, and motor a pair of pliers. Grab one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it turns.

If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.

Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you don't have a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.

If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of machines. In most instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that has an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

Call us if you need assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair or replace every vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to fix.

Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. The cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system, allowing it move more smoothly. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They also provide a variety of other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated by sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If you've been having trouble starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's manual. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob it may require professional programming which will require the services of a technician. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's guide.

Bring your current key along to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob or a large grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.