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 occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries or when you're returning home from work.

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

Broken or bent key

The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be careful. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Hold the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you may need to get a new key made. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your key will still work.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle if yours breaks.

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

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 measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.

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

Gear Selector

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission system that could be costly to repair.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector may get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually fix it in a couple of minutes.

In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more easily. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain healthy and flexible.

It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are some things you can do to extend their lifespan. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to fix the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer various other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition 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. This is because the negative plates in the battery in your car begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery could cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.

Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small 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.

You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. It is located on the front of the dashboard, Car Key Repairs door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will employ machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot with a precise cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade type or a key fob or has a large black or grey head, it will require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.