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

We've all experienced this when the car'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 driving home from work.

There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even slightly.

To do this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as an plier. Hold the key at one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine if it will turn.

If not, you might require a new one created. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will work.

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

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

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of machines. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.

If you need help with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We are able to repair or replace every vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to repair.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover keyless entry Repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They also provide various other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.

It's possible that the issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. Your mechanic should make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.

A key fob that's not working properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming which requires the help of a technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for keyless entry repairs safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car remote key repair shop near me prior to you go. You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.

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