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

We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your car with groceries or on your way home from work.

There are many solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are some common car key repair issues and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason a car owner cannot start their car is a bent key repair car. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is thin and may break if you bend it even slightly.

You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers for this. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you might require a new one made. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.

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

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some grease 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 apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may get stuck. A pin is a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and car key repair has hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us for assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to make it in a couple of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points within the gear system, Car Key Repair allowing it shift more smoothly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they remain in good shape and soft.

You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They can also provide a range of other services, like transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo 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 can also cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you've been having difficulty starting your car key button repair during cold weather, this could be a sign that you need a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of a technician. Try these easy methods before you buy the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that sends a signal to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. It is located on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob, or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.