15 Terms That Everyone Who Works In Automotive Key Repair Industry Should Know

15 Terms That Everyone Who Works In Automotive Key Repair Industry Should Know

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 in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or on your way home from work.

There are many different solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their car. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care.  key repair service near me  is thin and may break if bent even a little.

You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Hold the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to test if it will turn.

If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key will work.

It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure a more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can get stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel 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 pieces of a machine. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.

If you have a newer car that has keys with microchips in it, there's an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.

Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system, allowing it shift more easily. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial to keep them healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, however there are some things you can do to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They can also provide a range of other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery may cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car has been having problems beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time for a new battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work correctly.


Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could require professional programming by an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for 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. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will use an instrument to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob, or a thick head that is grey or black it must be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.