A Intermediate Guide The Steps To Automotive Key Repair 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 can occur at the worst time, such as when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or returning home from work.

Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy however, you need to be careful. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and pliers. Take the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.

It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.

If car key repair near me have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can get stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel 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 components of a machine. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you own a brand new car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.

Gear selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also indicate larger issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.

Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.

In certain instances the gear selector bushing may be damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points within the gear system, allowing it move more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they remain in good shape and soft.

It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are some ways to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.


These bushings are an important element of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great 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 device. They can also provide you with a range of other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on but 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 coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery can cause your car to lose electrical power, which could result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car is having issues starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

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

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this does not fix your device, it could require professional programming which will require the services of a technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

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

Bring your current working key along to an AutoZone store and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade type, a key fob, or has a thick black or grey head, it will need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.