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 could occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you're loading your car with groceries or driving home from work.

There are many different solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. It can be repaired by simply bending the key repair service. This may seem simple, but you must be careful. The key is thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.

To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it in the lock to see if it turns.

If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. This will avoid having to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key repair near me key.

If you have trouble inserting a broken car key repair near me or bent lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your device.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. A pin is a small 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 pieces of an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.

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

Selector for gears

It's crucial to take 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 continue to drive it. This could be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure to keep them healthy and flexible.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are a few things you can do to extend their lifespan. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, such as ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an essential component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair key shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They also offer various other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and you hear only a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery could cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been having issues starting in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for a new battery.

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

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in the owner's manual. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this does not fix the issue, your device may require professional programming that will require the assistance of a technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits a signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.

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

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is a blade type or a key fob or has a thick black or grey head, it will require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.