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 happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.

There are many different solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple but be careful. The key is thin and could break if you bend it even a little.

You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Take the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it will turn.

If not, you might require a new one made. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your key will still work.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by 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's a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

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

Gear selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission system that could be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be easily fixed. The most frequent reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to make it within a few minutes.

In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may be damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around joints within the gear system to help it move more fluidly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are a critical 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 shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the right parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They also provide a variety of other services, including transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may cause the loss of the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your issue is not due to a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.

Another common get more info repair for a key in the automotive is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease key car repair communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

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

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and here insurance reasons.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the more info VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your more info key has blade, fob or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.