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 engage 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.

Instead of panicking There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair; Blogolize link for more info, problems and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their car key remote repair near me is a bent key. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.

You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Take the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see whether it turns.

If not, you may need to have a new key made. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.

Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not without a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.

If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key repairs, try applying lubricant to it. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your key.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal 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 machines. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to function with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.

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

Gear selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.

Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually fix it in a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the points of articulation of the gear system to keep it fluid. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they remain healthy and flexible.

It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few ways to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely 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, like those from First Line.

These bushings form an important part of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you notice yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto key repair near me repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also offer many other services, like transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign you require a new battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work properly.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's guide. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic car key repair near me devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may require professional programming, which will require an expert technician. Try these easy techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key with you to an AutoZone store and an associate will use an instrument to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is a blade style or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it will have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.