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

We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.

There are many solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and may break if bent even a little.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Grab one end of the key using 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 place it in the lock to see if it turns.

If not, you may need to get a new one created. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will work.

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

If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try putting some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.

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

Selector for gears

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority of the time, Automotive Key Repair this issue can be fixed easily. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.

In some instances, automotive key repair the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it move more easily. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they stay healthy and supple.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are a critical part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They also offer various other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they age, they undergo a natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

It is possible that your issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this problem.

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of a technician. It's worthwhile to try these easy 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, sends out an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's guide.

Bring your working key car repair 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. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you have is a blade type or a key fob or has a thick grey or black head on it, it'll require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.