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 occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or when you're returning home from work.

There are many different solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is very thin and could break if bent even slightly.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it inside the lock to determine if it will turn.

If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.

Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and will prevent 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 the most precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer car that has keys with microchips in it, there's an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us for assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to fix.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they require to be flexible and healthy.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an important part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They also offer many other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on 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. This is due to the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

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

You can usually reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may require professional programming, which requires the help of an expert. Try these easy techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, transmits a signal. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether it is the right one to be used for automotive key repair starting. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for safety and Automotive Key Repair insurance purposes.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is a blade-style or key fob or has a large grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.