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

Instead of panicking There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common car key repair issues and possible solutions:

broken car key repair near me or bent keys

The most frequent reason a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple but it's important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.

To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock to see if it will turn.

If not, you might need to get a new one made. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a newer car that uses an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

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

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This issue can also be a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

Luckily, most times, this issue can be easily fixed. The most common reason that the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually complete the task within a few minutes.

In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more easily. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain healthy and supple.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are some things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an important part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide a range of other services, like transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they undergo a natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require a new battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all working properly could solve this problem.

A key fob that's not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.

You can usually reset the lost key fob following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device 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 device.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that sends a signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for Automotive key repair the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. It is located on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a large grey or black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.