15 Up-And-Coming Automotive Key Repair Bloggers You Need To Keep An Eye On Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all had this experience - the car key won't turn in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible moment, like when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or returning home from work.

There are many solutions to get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple, but you must be cautious. The key is thin and can break if bent even slightly.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Take the key on one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. This will avoid having to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will function.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.


If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your device.

Spring pins and springs with pins

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or the wrench.

If you own a newer car that has an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process can be simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

Contact us if you require assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.

Selector for gears

It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to fix.

Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector may be 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 complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system to make it more fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they remain in good shape and soft.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are some ways to extend their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an important element of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide you with various 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 a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.

car keys repair can also cause the loss of the power source in your car, causing the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you require a new battery.

It's possible that your problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of a technician. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new device.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that sends a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.

Bring your current key with you to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will use a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is a blade type or a key fob or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.