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 happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your car with groceries or returning home from work.

There are many solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a remote car key repairs owner is unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab 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. After that, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.

If not, you may need to have a new one made. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your important.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may get stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, vehicle with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In most instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This process can vary depending on the car keys repairs near me and manufacturer.

Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair or replace any vehicle key.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of bigger problems with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually fix it in a couple of minutes.

In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they stay in good shape and soft.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their lifespan. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an important element of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. 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 to find the perfect parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to become coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.