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

We've all been there - your car keys won't turn in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or returning home from work.

There are many solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be careful. The key is extremely thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Take one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to see if it will turn.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.

It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't end up without access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with 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 require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.

Gear Selector

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to fix.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to fix it within a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system, allowing it move more easily. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure to keep them healthy and supple.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover keyless entry repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.

Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or automotive key repair stop communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this doesn't work for your fob, it may require professional programming by an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit, write down 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 guide.

Bring your current key with you to an AutoZone store and an associate will use an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is a blade style or key fob or has a thick grey or black head on it, it'll require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.