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 in the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, like when you are loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.

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

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their car. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers for this. Take the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. You will not need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.

Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not without access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of machines. In most instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you own an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.

If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair car remote control key, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.

Luckily, most of the time this problem is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or break off. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.

In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, which is why they must be flexible and healthy.

It's not unusual for them to degrade in time, but there are some ways to extend 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 high quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to fix the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide many other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car key Fob repair near me battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working correctly.

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

It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in your owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, sends out a signal. This signal tells the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key repair shop near me will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you have is a blade-style or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car key fob repair near me before it can be used to start the engine.