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

We've all been there when the car remote key repair near me's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.

There are many solutions that can help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most frequent reason a car owner cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple, but you must be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.

To do this, you will need a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. 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. Then, you can put it inside the lock to determine whether it will turn.

If not, you might need to have a new key made. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes become 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 components of a machine. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or the wrench.

If you own a brand new vehicle that is equipped with an electronic car key repair near me key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us for assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.

Selector for gears

It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to repair.

Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure to keep them healthy and supple.

It is not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an important part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also provide you with many other services, including transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo a natural process that causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car is having issues beginning in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be due to 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.

A key fob that is not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle 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 solve the issue, your device may require professional programming which requires the help of an expert. Try these easy methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, sends out an indication. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. It is located on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your current working key to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key has blade, fob or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.