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 on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or returning to home from work.

There are many different solutions to get you back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. It may appear simple but be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then place it into the lock to see if it turns.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key works.

It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you have an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.

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

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue can also be a sign of larger issues in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually fix it within a few minutes.

In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system to keep it fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in here very cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with a range of other services, including transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn the key in the ignition but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they undergo a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle and cause check here the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If your car is experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this could be an indication that it is time for a new battery.

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

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

It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could require professional programming and will require an expert. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that when it is inserted auto key repair near me into the ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there, write down 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 current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original check here key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is a blade type, a key fob, or has a large grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.