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 turn on the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

There are a variety of solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even a little.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock to test if it will turn.

If not, you could require a new one made. This will avoid having to contact a locksmith and will ensure your key will function.

It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that measures 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 the majority of instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you have an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This process can be simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector mobile key repair near me becomes stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem is also a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be easily fixed. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore must be flexible and healthy.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They can also provide various other services, including transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn the key in the ignition 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 go through an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery could cause your emergency car key repair to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is having issues starting in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the problem is not an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could require professional programming and will require an expert. It's worth attempting these steps before you decide to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that sends signals to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original mobile key repair near me. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a large head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.