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

We've all been there the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or when you're returning home from work.

There are many different solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and solutions for them:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their car. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Hold the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it turns.

If not, you could require a new one made. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your key will still function.

Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. A pin is a small piece of steel 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 machines. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair or replace every vehicle key.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission that could be costly to repair.

Most times the issue is fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.

In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees so it's important 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 extend their lifespan. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings form an important element of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They also offer many other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery could cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.

Key fobs that are not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it is submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this does not fix your device, it could require professional programming which requires the help of a technician. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

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 car prior to you leave. It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key has blade, fob or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.