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

We've all experienced this - the car key won't turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or on your way home from work.

Rather than panic, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key issues with cars and their solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy however, you need to be cautious. The key is very thin and may break if bent even a little.

To do this, you will need a stable workspace, and an plier. Take one end of the key with 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 into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you might need to have a new one made. This will save you from needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will work.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle if yours breaks.

If you have 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 will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If 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.

Stuck pins and springs

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

If you own a newer car that uses keys with microchips inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

Contact us for assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could also indicate bigger problems in the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more easily. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they require to be flexible and healthy.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. You should first avoid using the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, motor like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an important part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes 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, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

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

A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been having problems starting in cold weather, it 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. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly.

A key fob that is not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may require professional programming, which will require the services of a technician. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key repair car is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a large grey or black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.