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

We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are a few common car key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple, but you must be cautious. The key is extremely thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.

To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it turns.

If not, you may need to get a new one made. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your key will still work.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will enable it move through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 parts of a machine. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you own an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.

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

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to repair.

Luckily, most of the time, this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it move more fluidly. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they stay in good shape and soft.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are some things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer many other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. 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 is not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. remote key fob repair is a small unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your device, it could need to professionally programmed 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 chip built into them. It transmits signals to a receiver inside the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring remote key fob repair working key with you to an AutoZone store and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is equipped with blade, fob, or a thick head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.
remote key fob repair