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

We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.

There are many different solutions to get you back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key problems and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even a little.

To accomplish this, you'll need an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Take the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will work.

Keep an extra key repair shops near me in your purse so you're not without access to your vehicle if yours is damaged.

If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for 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 could get stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel 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 an equipment. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can be simple or complex depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

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

Gear Selector

It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission system that could be costly to repair.

Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.

In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it move more fluidly. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair car key remote shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They also offer various other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition key and you hear only a click, then 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 early. This is because the negative plates inside your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may cause the loss of the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

A key Fob Key repair near me that's not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may require professional programming which requires the help of technicians. Try these easy methods before you buy a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you own a brand new 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 vehicle before you leave. This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade style or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.