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

We've all had this experience - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or when you're returning home from work.

There are many different solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin and can break if bent even slightly.

To accomplish this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you might need to have a new key made. This will avoid needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.

Keep a spare key in your purse so you don't have access to your vehicle if it breaks.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, you can try applying grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock and key repair near me. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure a more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) may become stuck. Pins are 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 components of a machine. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.

If you have a newer car key lock repair near me that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.

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

Gear Selector

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This issue can also be a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

Luckily, most of the time this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to keep it fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, so they require to be flexible and healthy.

It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an essential element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They also provide various other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been having issues starting in cold weather, this is a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming, which requires the help of a technician. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car key repair service keys come with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, transmits a signal. This signal informs the immobilizer on the emergency car key repair whether the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car key fob repairs before you go. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current working key to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade type or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.