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

We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you're filling your car with groceries or heading home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few common key issues with cars and their solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason why the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even slightly.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.

If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your key will still work.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may 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, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.

Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We are able to repair or replace any vehicle key.

Gear selector

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

Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be easily fixed. The cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system, allowing it move more easily. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few simple things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are an important component of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also offer many other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition key and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery may cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car is having problems beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.

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

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might require professional programming and will require an expert. Try these easy techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you own 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 car prior to you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.

Bring your current working key along to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will use a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then keys repair cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a large head that is grey or black it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.