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 most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.

Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common car key repair issues and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even a little.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it turns.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key works.

Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not without a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.

If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key repair near me key, try applying some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can sometimes get stuck. Pins are 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 pieces of machines. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

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

If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair or replace any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This issue could also indicate larger issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or Car Key Repair separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore need to be flexible and healthy.

It is not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide many other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on and hear nothing but 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 crystalline deposits.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which could lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign that you need a new battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this problem.

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

It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in your owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. It's worth attempting these steps before you decide to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure safety 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 visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.

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