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

We've all been there - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you're loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.

Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key problems and their solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason why the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers, car key and repair and then bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine if it will turn.

If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you own an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the model of car and the manufacturer.

If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program 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. This is a security issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This problem could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission system itself, car key and repair which can be expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are a critical component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They also provide various other services, including transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition key but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside your car battery will start to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work properly.

A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this does not fix the issue, your device may require professional programming which requires the help of a technician. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car key and repair keys come with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car key fob repair service before you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.

Bring your current key along to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will use a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key car repair. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a large grey or black head it must be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.