"The Automotive Key Repair Awards: The Best Worst And Strangest Things We ve Ever Seen

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 engage the ignition. It can occur at the worst time, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.

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

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may appear simple but be cautious. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.

To do this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without 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 inserting it into the lock. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

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

If you need help with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.

Gear selector

It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue could also indicate larger issues with the transmission that could be costly to repair.

Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector may get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually fix it in a couple of minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it move more fluidly. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to degrade in time, but there are a few ways to prolong their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold weather. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are a critical component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto key repair near me shop that specializes in Land Automotive Key Repair Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide various other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on and you hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car has been having issues starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working correctly.

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might require professional programming, which will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key with you to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If your key is equipped with blade, fob, or a thick head that is grey or black it must be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.