7 Simple Secrets To Totally Rolling With Your Automotive Key Repair Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all been there: your car key refuses to turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or when you're returning to home from work.

There are many solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin and could break if you bend it even a little.

To do this, you will need a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Take the key at one end with the pliers, then 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 into the lock to see if it turns.

If not, you might require a new one created. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will help it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of machines. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer car that uses keys with microchips in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.

Call us if you need assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.

Selector for gears

It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This can also be a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.

Luckily, most of the time this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually fix it within a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they require to be flexible and healthy.

It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, however there are some things you can do to prolong their life. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are a critical part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. 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 find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They also offer various other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, 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 of your car will begin to become coated by crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car has been having issues beginning in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.


Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working properly could solve this problem.

A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease communicating if it is submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If car key repair near me doesn't work for your fob, it may require professional programming, which will require an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you own a brand new 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 prior to you leave. It is located on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store and an associate will employ a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob, or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.