Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all been there: your car key refuses to engage the ignition. It could occur at the worst time, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some common car key repair - look at this now, issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key car repair is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is thin and can break if you bend it even a little.

To accomplish this, you'll require a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Hold the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will work.

Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle if yours is damaged.

If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you own a newer car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

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

Gear Selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This problem can also be a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.

Luckily, most times, this issue can be easily fixed. The most common reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees so it's important to keep them healthy and flexible.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in very cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are a critical component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide you with various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they get older, they go through a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be 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 working properly could solve this problem.

A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of an expert. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that when inserted into ignition, sends out a signal. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the mobile car key repair 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 for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key repair shop near me may be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there 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 manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key has blade, fob, or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.