Automotive key repairs near me 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 could occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.

Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common key issues with cars and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it turns.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. You will not need to call a locksmith and your existing key will work.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your key.

Stuck pins and springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 pieces of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.

If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

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

Gear Selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of more serious issues with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system to keep it fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay in good shape and soft.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are some ways to prolong their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an important component of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They also offer various other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age, they go through a natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. This is due to the negative plates in your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which could lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is having issues beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, car key Fob repairs it could need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert. Try these easy techniques before purchasing the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot with a precise cutting machine. If your key is blade style or key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll require programming to your specific car key fob repairs before it can be used to start the engine.