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

We've all experienced this - the car key won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your car keys repairs near me with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.

Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

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

To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Grab one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you could require a new key made. This will avoid having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key works.

Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you don't have access to your vehicle if it breaks.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (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 remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.

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

Contact us for assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This can also be a sign of bigger problems with the transmission itself, which can be expensive to fix.

Luckily, 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 disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually fix it within a few minutes.

In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, so they need to be healthy and flexible.

It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings form an important element of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They also provide various other services such as transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, automotive key repair and as they age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work correctly.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. 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. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in the owner's guide. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new device.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a brand new 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 prior to you go. This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use machines to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a large grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.