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 engage the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your car with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.

Instead of panicking, there are several different 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 key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their car. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.

You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Hold the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.

Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for an easier application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that is 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 an equipment. In most instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a brand new vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

Contact us for assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to repair.

Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, which is why they require to be flexible and healthy.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are some things you can do to extend their lifespan. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They also offer many other services, including transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they age they undergo a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery may cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you need a new battery.

It's possible that the issue is not due to a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. Your mechanic should verify that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer 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 to extreme temperatures or is wet.

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

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your car key repair before you can start the motor.