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

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

There are many different solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple, but it is important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Take the key at one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to see whether it will turn.

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

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

If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a brand new 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 is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.

If you need assistance with your automotive keys 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 selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue is also a sign of bigger problems with the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.

Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to fix it within a few minutes.

In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points in the gear system to help it move more easily. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and supple.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are a few ways to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with various other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the key in the ignition but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.

car key fob repairs near me can also cause the loss of the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you have been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but an issue with 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 working correctly.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob it may require professional programming, that will require the assistance of a technician. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order 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 a key fob or has a large grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.
car key fob repairs near me