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 time, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.

Rather than panic There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and their solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be cautious. The key is thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it turns.

If not, you might require a new one made. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will still function.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will help it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for an easier application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of an equipment. 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 needs to be programmed to function with your car. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.

Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.

Gear Selector

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to fix.

Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing get more info of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the joints within the gear system to help it shift more smoothly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay in good shape and soft.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide various other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and hear only a click, then your battery is check here dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. This is due to the car keys repairs near me negative plates of the battery in your car begin to become coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the problem is not a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this issue.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming, which requires the help of technicians. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that sends a signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car whether it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s theft car key repair shops near me of vehicles became such an issue that the majority here of manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go 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 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 with an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a thick grey or black head it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.