Introduction To The Intermediate Guide On Automotive Key Repair

Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your car with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.

There are many different solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple, but you must be cautious. The key is extremely thin and can break if you bend it even slightly.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it changes.


If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key works.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle if it is damaged.

If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying grease to it. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.

Contact us if you require assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to repair.

Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to keep it fluid. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, but there are some ways to extend their life. 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. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an essential element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. car remote key repair near me can assist you to find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They also provide many other services such as transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they age they go through a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is because the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If your car has been having problems starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.

Key fobs that are not working properly is another common issue with automotive keys. 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. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming and will require a special technician. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them that transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that 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 blade style or key fob or has a large grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.

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Pub: 25 Feb 2024 06:03 UTC
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