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 happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or on your way to home from work.

There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair car key issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple, but you must be cautious. The key is extremely thin and can break if you bend it even slightly.

You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it inside the lock to determine whether it turns.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will work.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken key repair near me 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 apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that measures 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 a machine. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

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

If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to repair.

Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. The cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to make it more fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they stay healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an important component of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair key fob shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer various other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates in your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign that you require a new battery.

It's possible that the problem is not a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.

Another common repair for a key repairs near me in the automotive is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.

It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the directions in your owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic car key repair near me devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this does not fix the issue, your device may require professional programming, that will require the assistance of an expert. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car if the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your Car key lock Repair near me 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 a participating AutoZone store and a representative will utilize a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key has blade, fob, or a thick grey or black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.