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 on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, broken like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or returning to home from work.

There are many different solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are some common car key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key repair shops near me is extremely thin and can break if bent even slightly.

You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to determine whether it will turn.

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

It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try putting some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your device.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out with 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 to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

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

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This can also be a sign of more serious issues with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled 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 instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more easily. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they stay healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. You should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an important component of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector device. They can also provide a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age, they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, broken which can lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car is having issues beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

It is possible that your issue is not caused by a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

A key fob that's not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the model it could 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 work for your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by an expert technician. Try these easy methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is equipped with 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.