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

We've all been there - your car keys won't turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or returning to home from work.

Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason a car owner cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple but it's important to do this carefully. The key is very thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to test whether it will turn.

If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will still function.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it 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 to get the most precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.

If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the car key repairs near me's manufacturer and model.

Contact us for assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.

Selector for gears

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or become disconnected. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in very cold weather. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings form an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer a variety of other services such as maintenance and repair car key of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the 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 age they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated by crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery may cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If you've been having difficulties starting your car key repair service in cold weather, it could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.

You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that sends signals to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car key button repair theft was a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key 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 type or a key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.