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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 could occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or driving home from work.

Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.

You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine if it will turn.

If not, you may need to get a new one created. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will work.

It's a good idea 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 you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for an easier application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your key.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or the wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.


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

Gear selector

It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This problem is also a sign of bigger problems with the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.

Most times the issue is fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.

In some cases the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it move more fluidly. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them in good shape and soft.

You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings form an important element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to fix the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer a variety of other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they get older, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require a new battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.

Another common repair for a key in the automotive is the key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.

You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. her response 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 an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is blade type or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.

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Pub: 19 Jan 2024 18:37 UTC

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