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 engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or when you're returning home from work.

Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key issues with cars and solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.

You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Take the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will still function.

Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you don't have a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of machines. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer car that uses a key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.

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

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to repair.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears could freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an important element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also offer a range of other services, like transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo natural processes that cause them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.

A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key car key repairs near me fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.

It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in your owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this does not fix the issue, your device may require professional programming, which will require the services of technicians. It's worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new device.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to safety and 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. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key has blade, fob, or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.