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

We've all been there the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or near heading home from work.

Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most frequent reason a car remote key repair near me owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it turns.

If not, you may need to get a new one made. This will save you from having to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.

Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for an even more precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes get stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two components 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 a brand new car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle 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, you need to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a security issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be easily fixed. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system to keep it fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their lifespan. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. The cables that control the gears could freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are a critical element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They also offer various other services, including transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates in your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If you've had difficulty starting your car keys repair during cold weather this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your issue is not due to a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current remote key repair near me to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is a blade type, a key fob, or has a large black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.