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

We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that can help you get back on your way. Here are a few common car key immobiliser repair key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple but be cautious. The key is extremely thin and can break if bent even slightly.

You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. After that, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.

If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. You don't need to call a lock-smith and your key will still function.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your device.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of machines. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.

If you own an older mobile car key repair that uses microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.

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

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission system that could be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.

In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing could become car remote key repair near me theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you have is a blade type or a key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it'll require programming to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.