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

We've all had this experience - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your car with groceries or returning home from work.

There are many solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some common key issues with cars and their solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.

You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to see whether it turns.

If not, you may need to get a new one created. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key works.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't have an keyless entry repair point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you're experiencing problems with a broken car key repair near me or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it move through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and Door Key Repair Near Me springs with pins

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of machines. In most cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.

Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Selector for gears

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to repair.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.

In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it move more fluidly. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.

It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an important 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 right parts to fix your gear selector device. They can also provide various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause the loss of the power source in your car, causing the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time to get a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, door key repair near me switch 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 solve the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of a technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car whether the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door key repair near me jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate 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 using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is blade-style or key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.