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 turn in the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, like when you are loading your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.

There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin and may break if you bend it even slightly.

To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it changes.

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

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.

If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try putting some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your device.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two 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 a brand new car that has keys with microchips in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.

If you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks, give us call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. The most frequent reason the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore must be flexible and healthy.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that remote control car key repairs the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an important part of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also provide you with many other services, including transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or automotive key repair electric windows to malfunction. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, it is an indication that it is time for a new battery.

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

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming, which will require a special technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, emergency car key repair theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.

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. 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 black or grey head on it, Automotive Key Repair it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.