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

We've all been there: your car key refuses to turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or on your way to home from work.

There are many different solutions to get you back on your way. Here are a few common key repairs issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and could break if you bend it even a little.

To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and pliers. Grab one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to test if it will turn.

If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will work.

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

If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it move through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can get stuck. A pin is a small 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 machines. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that has a key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.

If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair or Door Key Repair Near me replace every vehicle key.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a security issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to fix.

Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to make it in a couple of minutes.

In some cases the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and supple.

It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are some ways to extend their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an important part of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer a variety of other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key but hear only 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 die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery may cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.

It is possible that your issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of an expert. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that transmits a signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car whether it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. It is located on the front of the dashboard, Door Key Repair Near Me jamb, door key repair near Me or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key with you to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade type, a key fob, or has a large black or grey head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.