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

We've all been there - the car key won't turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or on your way home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or near bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it turns.

If not, you could require a new one created. You don't need to call a locksmith and your existing key will work.

Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. A pin is a small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In the majority of instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.

Contact us for near assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to repair.

Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.

In some instances the gear selector bushing could get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system to help it move more easily. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide a range of other services, including transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery can cause your car keys repair to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign you need a new battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a small device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming by a special technician. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer car, the only way to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an 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 equipped with a blade, a fob or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.