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

We've all experienced this - the car key won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk 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 some of the most common automotive key problems and their solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be careful. The key is extremely thin and may break if bent even a little.

To do this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock key repair near me to test whether it will turn.

If not, motor you might require a new one created. This will save you from having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.

Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not without access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try applying some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can get 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 components of machines. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a 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 to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.

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

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of more serious issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.

In some cases the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, so they must be flexible and healthy.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are some ways to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector device. They also provide a variety of other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition key but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the issue is not caused by a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed 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 an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may require professional programming which will require the services of a technician. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, motor theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. 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 the owner's manual.

Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will use a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a large grey or black head it must be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.