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

We've all been there when the remote car key repairs's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible moment, like when you're filling your car key repair near me with groceries or heading home from work.

Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.

To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock to see whether it turns.

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

Keep a spare key in your purse so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.

If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some grease on it prior to 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 lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your device.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of machines. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.

If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your car. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme 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 security issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This issue can also be a sign of larger issues in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or break off. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it shift more easily. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore need to be flexible and healthy.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are some things you can do to extend their lifespan. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones 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 visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also offer a variety of other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require a new battery.

It's possible that the problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. Your mechanic should make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob key repair is a tiny device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed by an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.

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

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is blade type or a key fob or has a thick black or grey head on it, it'll require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.