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 occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.

There are many solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some common key issues with cars and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care. The key is very thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, [Redirect-Java] or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to determine if it will turn.

If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. This will save you from having to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will function.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't end up without access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of an equipment. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that uses an electronic key with a microchip in it, [Redirect-Frame] there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.

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

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This is also a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system that could be costly to repair keys near me.

Luckily, most times, this issue can be easily fixed. The most common reason that the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.

In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure to keep them healthy and supple.

You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair car keys near me shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They also offer various other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, 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 become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery can cause your car to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you have been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you require a new battery.

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

Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.

It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

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

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key has a blade, a fob, or a thick head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.