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

There are a variety of solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why a car key fob repair near me - more resources, owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Take one end of the key with 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 place it in the lock to see if it will turn.

If not, you could need to get a new one created. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will work.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle if it breaks.

If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.

If you have an older car that uses microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car keys repair near me's model and manufacturer.

Call us if you need assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial to keep them healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to fix the gear selector mechanism. They also offer various other services such as transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery in your car key remote repair begin to become coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign you require a new battery.

It is possible that your problem is not a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car 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 instructions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.

Bring your current working key to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key has blade, fob, or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.