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 in the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, like when you're loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.

There are many different solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple but be careful. The key is very thin and may break if bent even a little.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to test whether it turns.

If not, you may need to get a new one made. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your key will still function.

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

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your device.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that uses keys with microchips in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.

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

Gear Selector

It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.

Luckily, most of the time this problem can be easily fixed. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to make it in a couple of minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it move more fluidly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, so it's important to keep them in good shape and soft.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are some ways to prolong their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace get more info the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer various other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which could lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is having problems beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your problem is not an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key 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 become confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the steps in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming which will require the services of a technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new device.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if more info it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the read more dashboard's front or door click here jamb in the owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you have is a blade style or key fob or has a thick grey or black head read more on it, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.