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 in the ignition. It could occur at the worst time, such as when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.

Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their car remote key repair near me. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. 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 do this, you'll need an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it inside the lock how to repair car key fob see whether it turns.

If not, you might need to get a new one created. This will save you from having to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key works.

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

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.

Selector for gears

It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be fixed easily. The cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points within the gear system, allowing it shift more easily. These covers function similar to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they require to be flexible and healthy.

It's not unusual for them to degrade in time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an important component of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer many other services such as transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the issue is not caused by a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be solved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.

Another common repair for a key in the automotive is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system may become confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the directions in your owner's manual. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob key repair, it may require professional programming and will require an expert technician. Try these easy methods before you buy the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.

Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store and an associate will use machines to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If your key is blade style, a key fob, or has a thick black or grey head, it will require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.