Why We Why We Automotive Key Repair (And You Should Also!) Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all been there: the car key won't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your car with groceries or when you're returning home from work.

There are many different solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy but it's important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and may break if you bend it even slightly.

To accomplish 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 best to do this on the floor or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to test if it will turn.

If not, you might need to get a new one made. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.

Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle if yours is damaged.

If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of a machine. 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 brand new car that has a key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.

If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This problem could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.

Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually fix it in a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it shift more easily. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, so it's important to keep them healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an important element of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with many other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery could cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.

car key fob repairs that your issue is not due to a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work properly.

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

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your device, it could need to professionally programmed which requires the help of technicians. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. 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 key could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.


Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you are using has an edge, a fob or a large grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.