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

Rather than panic There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is thin and could break if you bend it even a little.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Grab the key at one end with 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 turns.

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

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

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two parts of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a newer car that has a key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you need help with your car keys or locks, give us 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 bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to repair.

Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, 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 some cases the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they must be flexible and healthy.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are an important element of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you find 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 to locate the right parts to repair your gear selector device. They also offer various other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery could cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.

Key fobs that are not working properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. lock key repair near me can become confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might require professional programming and will require a special technician. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. This signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down lock and key repair near me (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. It is located on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot using a precision cutting machine. If your key has blade, fob or a large grey/black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.
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