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

We've all been there: your car key repair near me keys won't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.

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

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be careful. The key is extremely thin and could break if you bend it even a little.

To do this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to test whether it will turn.

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

Keep an extra key in your pocket so you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.

If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock key repair near me. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important.

Stuck pins and springs

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have a newer car that has keys with microchips in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a security issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission itself, which could be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be easily fixed. The most common reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In some cases the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to help it move more smoothly. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and flexible.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They can also offer various other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition key and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can cause your car to lose power, which could lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is having problems starting in cold weather, it is an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the issue is not due to an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Your mechanic should verify that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.

key repair shop near me fobs that are not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease communicating if it is submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the steps in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require a special technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, transmits the signal. This signal tells the immobilizer in the car whether it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's guide.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has blade, fob, or a thick grey or black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.