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

We've all been there: your car key refuses to engage the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.

There are many solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key fob repairs near me repair problems and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is very thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine if it will turn.

If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your existing key will function.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a 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 stop moisture from damaging your important.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can sometimes get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.

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

Gear selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission itself, which could be costly to repair.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task within a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage in your joints, so they require to be healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto key fob repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to fix your gear selector automotive key repair device. They also offer many other services, including transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car is having problems starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for a new battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem.

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. Try these easy techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

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

Bring your current working key with you to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will utilize machines to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot using a precision cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a thick grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.