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

We've all been there - your car keys won't turn on the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.

There are many different solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even a little.

You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it will turn.

If not, you could require a new one made. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will work.

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

If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become 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 a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or the wrench.

If you have an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to function with your car. This procedure can differ based 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

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to repair.

Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In some cases the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an important part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also offer many other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they undergo a natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been having problems getting started in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working properly.

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming which requires the help of a technician. Try these easy methods before you buy a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder that when inserted into ignition, sends out a signal. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll require programming to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.