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 on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or when you're returning home from work.

There are many solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are a few common car key repair issues and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple, but you must be careful. The key is extremely thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.

To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Grab the key on one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it into the lock to see if it changes.

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

It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.

If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to function with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.

If you need help with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.

Selector for gears

If your car remote key repair key fob repair car remote control key; site,'s gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This problem is also a sign of larger issues in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.

Luckily, most of the time this problem is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or break off. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to make it within a few minutes.

In some cases the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points within the gear system, allowing it shift more fluidly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, which is why they need to be healthy and flexible.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings form an essential element of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also offer a variety of other services such as transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they get older, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car key fob repairs near me battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car remote key repair near me is having issues beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.

A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the vehicle it will require 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 the issue, your device may require professional programming, which requires the help of a technician. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure 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. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If your key is blade style, a key fob, or has a large black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.