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

We've all had this experience - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you are loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.

Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. It might sound easy 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.

To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and pliers. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it will turn.

If not, you may need to have a new one created. This will save you from having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.

Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.

If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your device.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes get stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of a machine. In most instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you need help with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more easily. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure to keep them healthy and supple.

It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, but there are some ways to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also offer many other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything except a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age, they undergo a natural process that causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery may cause you to lose the power source in your car and cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.

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

A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine mobile key repair and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your device, it could require professional programming that will require the assistance of technicians. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, sends out the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is blade-style or a key fob or has a large black or grey head, it will require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.