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

We've all been there - your car keys won't turn on the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or heading home from work.

Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you might need to have a new one made. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.

Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not without access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can get stuck. A pin is a small 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 components of a machine. In most cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a newer car that uses an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.

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

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic right away. This is a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.

Luckily, most 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 disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually make it within a few minutes.

In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and flexible.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not 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. These experts can help find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They can also provide many other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through 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 can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign that you require a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.

A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the steps in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your device, it could require professional programming, which requires the help of technicians. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current working key with you to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is blade-style or a key fob or has a large grey or black head on it, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.