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 occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.

Rather than panic There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent keys

The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy but be careful. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.

To do this, you will need a stable workspace, and pliers. 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. You can then place it inside the lock key repair near me to see if it turns.

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

Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without access to your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.

If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is 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 cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or the wrench.

If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process can be simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

If you need help 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 soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of bigger problems with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

Most times 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 disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In some cases the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more easily. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an important element of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, Mobile Key Repair it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They also offer many other services such as transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been having problems starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for a new battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions 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 electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of a technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car key repair company keys are fitted with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, sends out a signal. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

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