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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 turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

Rather than panic There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key problems and their solutions:

Broken or bent mobile key fob repair

The most common reason why the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin and may break if you bend it even a little.

To do this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Grab one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it turns.

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

Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you don't have access to your vehicle if yours breaks.

If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply 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 prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that uses a key with a microchip in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.

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

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This problem is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.

In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing may be damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it move more smoothly. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them healthy and flexible.

It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are some ways to extend their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.

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 good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with various other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery may cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car has been having issues starting in cold weather, it is an indication that it is time for a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.

A key fob that is not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could require professional programming by an expert. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. This signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. It is located on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member 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 blade type or a key fob or has a large grey or black head, it will require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.