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 engage the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your car with groceries or when you're returning home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are some common car key repair issues and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even slightly.

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

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your key will still work.

It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. A pin is a small 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 the majority of instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that has a key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your car. This can be a simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us if you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We are able to repair or replace any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a security issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This can also be a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.

Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In some cases the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points within the gear system, allowing it move more smoothly. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. First, you should avoid 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, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover keyless entry repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also provide various other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age, they go through a natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you've been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you need a new battery.

It is possible that your problem is not an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system may become confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could require professional programming that will require the assistance of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, sends out the signal. 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. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a large grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car key repair before it can be used to start the engine.