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

We've all been there - your car key refuses to turn in the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.

There are many different solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. It might sound easy but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.

To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it turns.

If not, you may need to have a new key made. This will avoid having to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key works.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your device.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This process can be simple or complex depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

Contact us for assistance with your car key repair cost keys or locks! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.

In some cases the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and supple.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition key but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is because the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work properly.

Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't 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 may be confused or cease communicating if it is submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car remote key repair near me you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or Automotive Key Repair shut and open the windows. If this does not fix your device, it could require professional programming which will require the services of an expert. Try these easy techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car whether the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is a blade-style or a key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it will need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.