Don't Make This Mistake With Your Automotive Key Repair Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all experienced this the car keys won't engage in the ignition. key repair near me happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.

Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common car key repair issues and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys


A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy, but it is important to do it with care. The key is very thin and could break if you bend it even a little.

You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it turns.

If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. You will not need to call a locksmith and your existing key will function.

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

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can sometimes get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a newer car that has a key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.

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

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of bigger problems with the transmission system that could be costly to repair.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, which is why they require to be healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. 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 undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates in the battery in your car begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.

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

Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.

A key fob that is not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as 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.

Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on 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 an expert. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits a signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an 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 to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key has a blade, a fob or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.