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

We've all been there - your car key refuses to turn in the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or returning home from work.

Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car Remote key fob repair owners are unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Hold the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it inside the lock to determine whether it will turn.

If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. This will save you from having to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.

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

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock and key repair near me. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of an equipment. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is likely that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process can be simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We can repair or replace every vehicle key.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually make it in a couple of minutes.

In some cases the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they stay healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into 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 age, they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. This is because the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which can result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been experiencing problems beginning 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 an issue with 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 working properly.

A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's guide.

Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store and an associate will employ machines to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has an edge, a fob or a large grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.