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 can happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

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

Broken or bent keys

The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin and can break if bent even a little.

You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then place it into the lock to see if it turns.

If not, you may require a new one created. This will avoid needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key works.

Keep a spare key in your purse so you don't have a way to enter your vehicle if yours is damaged.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken car key repair near me key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or 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 with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of machines. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car remote Key fob Repair. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Gear selector

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

Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they remain in good shape and soft.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are a few ways to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings form an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair car key shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also provide you with many other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car is having problems getting started in cold weather, this could be an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working properly.

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

Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could require professional programming, which requires the help of an expert. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

ignition key repair near me socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that transmits signals to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer on the electronic car key repair near me if the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If your key is a blade-style, a key fob, car remote key fob repair or has a thick grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.