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

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

There are many different solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are a few common automotive key problems and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.

To do this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will function.

Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have access to your vehicle if it is damaged.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your device.

Stuck pins and springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of a machine. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.

If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips in it, there's an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

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

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to repair.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and break. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings form an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ provide many other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.

It is possible that your problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.

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

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may require professional programming and will require an expert technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have an embedded transponder chip in them that sends a signal to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a thick head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.