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

We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you'll need a stable workspace, and an plier. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it turns.

If not, you may need to have a new one made. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.

Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle if it breaks.

If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can 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 pieces of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a brand new vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.

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

Gear selector

It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.

Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually make it in a couple of minutes.

In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees, so it's important to keep them healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in very cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are a critical part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They can also offer various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery may cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If your car is having issues starting in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

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

A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair key fob. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, motor it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require a special technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits signals to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key along to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob, or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.