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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 in the ignition. It could occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're filling your car with groceries or heading home from work.

There are many solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason a car owner cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is thin and could break if bent even slightly.

To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it inside the lock to see whether it turns.

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

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

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your key.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer car key and repair that uses keys with microchips inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.

Contact us if you require assistance with your car locks or keys! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.

Selector for gears

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission itself, which can be costly how to repair broken car key repair.

Luckily, most of the time, this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually fix it in a couple of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they must be flexible and healthy.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are some things you can do to extend their lifespan. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are an important element of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They also offer a variety of other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they age they undergo an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been having issues starting in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.

Key fobs that are not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of an expert. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, transmits the signal. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car whether the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key along to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will use machines to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key has a blade, a fob or a large grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.