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 happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or returning to home from work.

Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are some common car key repair issues and solutions for them:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even a little.

To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Hold the key on one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it turns.

If not, you may require a new one made. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your key will work.

Keep a spare key in your purse so you don't have a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.

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 allow it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older car that uses microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.

If you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key repair service key.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This problem is also a sign of more serious issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be fixed easily. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter 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 points of articulation of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial to keep them healthy and supple.

You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings form an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key and you hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates in the battery of your car keys repairs near me will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car has been having issues getting started in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common automotive key fob repair near me repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could require professional programming by an expert. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car key fob repairs near me whether the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

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