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 time, such as when you are loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.

Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key problems and their solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Hold the mobile key fob repair at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then place it into the lock to see if it turns.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key works.

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

If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try applying some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your device.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 machines. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.

If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and Automotive Key Repair car.

If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This problem is also a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.

In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing may be damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system to aid in making it shift more easily. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them healthy and supple.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

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

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

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

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

You can usually reset the lost key fob following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car key fob repairs near me keys include a transponder chip built into them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your keys could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there 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 key to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will employ machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a thick grey/black head, automotive key repair it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.