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

We've all been there: your car key refuses to turn on the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, for instance, 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 a few common key issues with cars and solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple but be cautious. The key is thin and can break if you bend it even slightly.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it inside the lock to determine whether it turns.

If not, you might require a new key made. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will still function.

It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will enable it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.

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

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic right away. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to fix.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and supple.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few simple things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to fix the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide many other services, including transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age they undergo natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car key and repair battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time for a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.

A key fob that's not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob repair fob connects 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 becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and Car Key And Repair off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of technicians. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your 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 precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob, or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.