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 happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or when you're returning home from work.

There are many different solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.

To accomplish this, you'll need an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Grab one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you may need to have a new one created. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ will avoid needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key works.

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

If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying oil to it. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 a machine. In most cases, you can remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or 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 can be simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us if you require assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This issue is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to make it in a couple of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings form an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector device. They can also provide many other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on and you hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they get older, they go through a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is having issues starting in cold weather, this could be an indication that it is time for a new battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this problem.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.

You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need 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 open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car whether the key is the right one to be used for starting. 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 own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative 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 with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is blade-style or a key fob or has a large grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.