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

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

There are many solutions to get you back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is very thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.

You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Grab one end of the key fob repair near me with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your existing key will function.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try applying some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

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

If you have a newer car that uses keys with microchips in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us if you require assistance with your car key repairs near me locks or keys! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to fix.

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

In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.

It is not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings form an essential part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also offer many other services, like transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they undergo natural processes that cause them to end up dying prematurely. This is because the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the problem is not an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that isn't working properly. 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 become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the steps in your owner's manual. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming and will require an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys repairs keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is blade-style or a key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it will need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.