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 turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your car with groceries or returning home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key Repair car [Minecraftcommand.science]

A bent key is the most common reason a car key repair near me owner can't start their vehicle. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take 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. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you may need to have a new one made. This will save you from needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't end up without access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key fob repair.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your important.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that uses an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.

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

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This issue could also indicate larger issues in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.

In some cases the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore need to be flexible and healthy.

It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an important part of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also offer various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

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

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which can result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time for a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed, which will require a special technician. However, it's still worth attempting these 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 a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key fob repair is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing 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 accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is blade type or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.