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

We've all been there the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you are loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.

Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple, but you must be careful. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you'll require a stable workspace, and pliers. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you might need to have a new key made. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will work.

Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complex depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

If you require assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.

Selector for gears

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This can also be a sign of bigger problems with the transmission itself, which can be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be easily fixed. The most common reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually make it within a few minutes.

In some cases the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points 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 healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, but there are a few ways to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an important part of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also offer various other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on and you 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 a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates in your car battery will start to become coated by crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead lock and key repair near me battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.

A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may become confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them that transmits a signal to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you are using has an edge, a fob or a large grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.