Why No One Cares About 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 the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you are loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.

There are many different solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few common car key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.

To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Hold the key at one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes 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 parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.

If you need assistance with your car keys or locks give us a call! We are able to repair or replace any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This can also be a sign of bigger problems with the transmission itself, which can be expensive to fix.

Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.

In key fob repair , the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to help it shift more easily. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, so they must be healthy and flexible.

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 cables that control the gears could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones 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 good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also provide various other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn the key in the ignition but hear nothing but 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. This is because the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.

It is possible that your issue is not caused by a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

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


It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn 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 require professional programming which will require the services of technicians. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have an embedded transponder chip in them that transmits signals to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob or a thick head that is grey or black it must be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.