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 can happen at the worst possible moment, like when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.

There are a variety of solutions to get you back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key problems and solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may appear simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even slightly.

To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and pliers. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't have an entry point 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 easier through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure a more precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your important.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of a machine. In the majority of instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a newer car that has 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 be simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.

Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system to help it shift more smoothly. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they stay healthy and supple.

It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are a few ways to prolong their life. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for get more info instance ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to repair your gear selector device. They can also provide read more a range of other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery can cause your car to lose electrical power, which could result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car has been having problems beginning car keys repair near me in cold weather, this is a good sign that it is time for a new battery.

It's possible that your issue is not due to a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this issue.

A key fob that's 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 get confused or cease communicating here with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming that will require the assistance of technicians. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that sends signals to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a more info precise cutting machine. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob, or a thick grey or black head it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.