The Ultimate Glossary For Terms Related To Automotive Key Repair

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

We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.

There are many different solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.

To do this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Grab one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it turns.

If not, you may require a new one made. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.

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


If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your device.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In the majority of instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.

Call us if you need assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This is also a sign of more serious issues with the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually complete the task within a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They also provide many other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If you've been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you need a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.

Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may become confused or stop communicating if it is submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the steps in your owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing a new fob.

key repair near me include a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key along to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use machines to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately 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 blade, fob or a large grey or black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.

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Pub: 27 Jan 2024 02:55 UTC

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