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 occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason a car owner cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple but be cautious. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab 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 automotive key repair in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. This will save you from needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will work.

Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle if it is damaged.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may 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 with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.

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

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually complete the task within a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or automotive key repair worn. Rubber covers are placed around the points of articulation of the gear system to make it more fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they stay in good shape and soft.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is also recommended how to repair car key fob replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They also provide many other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age, they undergo a natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose the power source in your car, causing the radio or electric windows to fail. If you have been having difficulties starting your car key repair service in cold weather this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.

It is possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work correctly.

Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the directions in your owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may require professional programming, which will require the services of a technician. Try these easy methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to 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 visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your current working key to an AutoZone store and an associate will use a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot with a precise cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade type or a key fob or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.