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

We've all been there: the car key won't engage the ignition. It can occur at the worst time, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.

Rather than panic There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair shop repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is thin and automotive Key repair could break if you bend it even a little.

To accomplish this, you'll need a stable workspace, and an plier. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you could require a new key made. This will save you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will function.

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

If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying grease to it. This will allow it move through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are a small 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 pieces of machines. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older car that uses a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.

If you require assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission itself, which can be costly to repair.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system, allowing it move more easily. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay in good shape and soft.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their lifespan. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an important component of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer various 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 prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to fail. If you've been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, Automotive Key Repair your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.

Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the steps in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could require professional programming, that will require the assistance of a technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits signals to a receiver inside the ignition when they are inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your keys could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.

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