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 could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.

Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason why the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. It may appear simple but be cautious. The key is extremely thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.

To do this, you'll need an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it turns.

If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will function.

Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not without access to your vehicle if yours breaks.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have a newer car remote key repair that has a key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair car key, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.

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

In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain healthy and flexible.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you find the perfect parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide you with many other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working properly.

A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The remote key fob repair near me fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may require professional programming that will require the assistance of a technician. Try these easy methods before you buy a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your current working key to an AutoZone store and a representative will employ machines to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade type, a key fob, or has a large grey or black head on it, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.