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 on the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible moment, like when you are loading your car with groceries or driving home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that can help you get back on your way. Here are some common key issues with cars and solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most frequent reason a car key repair owner cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may seem simple however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.

To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as an plier. Grab one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.

If not, you could need to have a new one created. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your key will still work.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your important.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) may get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a newer car that has 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 is different based on the car and manufacturer.

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

Gear Selector

It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to fix.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually make it within a few minutes.

In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it shift more smoothly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, so they require to be healthy and flexible.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are some things you can do to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an Auto Key Fob Repair repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer many other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car is experiencing problems starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your issue is not due to an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.

A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of a technician. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by calling 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, in the door jamb or in the owner's guide.

Bring your current key to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you have is a blade style, a key fob, or has a large black or grey head on it, it'll require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.