Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition<br /><br />We've all had this experience - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.<br /><br />Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key problems and solutions:<br /><br />Broken or bent key<br /><br />The most common reason why a car owner cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is thin and could break if you bend it even a little.<br /><br />You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Grab one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it into the lock to see if it changes.<br /><br />If not, you could need to have a new key made. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key works.<br /><br />Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.<br /><br />If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.<br /><br />Pins that are snuck or springs<br /><br />A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.<br /><br />If you own an older vehicle that has a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to function with your car. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.<br /><br />Contact us for assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.<br /><br />Gear Selector<br /><br />If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.<br /><br />Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to make it within a few minutes.<br /><br />In some cases the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system to keep it fluid. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, so they require to be flexible and healthy.<br /><br />It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are some ways to prolong their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.<br /><br /><br /><br />These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide many other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.<br /><br />Dead battery<br /><br />If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. This is because the negative plates in the battery of your car will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.<br /><br />A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to stop working. If you've been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.<br /><br />It's possible that the issue is not caused by a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.<br /><br />Another common repair for a key in the automotive is the key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.<br /><br />It is possible to reset the lost key fob 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 even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. Try these easy techniques before buying a new fob.<br /><br />Ignition socket<br /><br />Modern car keys come with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.<br /><br />If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.<br /><br />Bring your current key along to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will use machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If <a href="https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/">car key repairs</a> is blade style or key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it will have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.<br /><br />