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

We've all experienced this the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key car repair

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key repairs near me is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.

You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock to test if it will turn.

If not, you could need to get a new key made. You will not need to call a locksmith and your existing key will function.

Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle if it breaks.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for an easier application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.

Pins that are snuck or springs

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

If you own an older car that is equipped with microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process can be simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and mobile car key repair.

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

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem is also a sign of larger issues in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able tottery cables are working properly.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it might require professional programming by an expert technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that transmits signals to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you have a newer car key repair company, the only way to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.

Bring your current working key along to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob, or a thick head that is grey or black it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.