Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car keys won't turn. Some fixes are simple, while others require more technical knowledge or assistance from a professional.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that do not have chips by choosing an identical key blank and using machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This process typically takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For example, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or heading to the gym. Even when you're returning home after a long day at work. The good news is that if the issue is due to your key fob battery, or a dead lock it is usually very simple to repair and could help you save the cost of an expensive replacement.
The first thing you can try is replacing the battery in your key fob if it's no longer holding a charge anymore. This is a great solution, especially if your key fob is smashed often. If you're still having trouble making a quick visit to your local AutoZone could aid.
Transponder chips may be embedded in the head of plastic on your key if you drive an older model vehicle. Designed to be a better anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when your key is put into the ignition. remote key fob repair is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" that either accepts and starts the engine of your vehicle or blocks it from starting.
It is possible to reset the chip by yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual. It may include closing and opening doors or turning off lights or electronic devices and pressing a set of buttons in a certain order. If you're unable to accomplish this yourself, it's important to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram the keys at a cost. Some car dealerships also perform this, however they may require proof of ownership and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a basic 3D shape in geometry. It's a form that has two circular bases joined by a curved surface at an exact distance from the center. This is called the height of the cylindrical. A few real-world examples of a cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in car engine parts.
When a key breaks, you may need to replace the cylinder, too. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can typically do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto parts store and follow the steps in your owner's manual for how to replace it. It's not always an easy task and it's better to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys are not entering the ignition or turning on the engine, the issue might be with the cylinder or the battery. The battery change in your key fob is one of the first things you should do, and it may solve the issue. Your key fob is likely to be used a lot and bumped around, which means it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed.
This is usually done by locksmiths or your car dealer, based on the type of car you have. If you own an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store will typically cut a standard car key and provide an alternative, while the dealer will require your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to create an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time keys are prone to a beating. They can get lost in pockets, purses and drawers, and could even be bent in a hard-to-reach location. It is crucial to check the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure that they are well-maintained and clean. If they're not the grooves will eventually wear down, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
There are a variety of options you can use to free your key from the ignition. First, try using an extra key to determine if the problem is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to allow it to align properly with the internal components.
A key jamming in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers in the cylinder. This can result in the pins failing to drop correctly, which can prevent the key from being properly inserted. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder can aid in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.
In addition, some may suggest tapping the end of the key with a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this can end up damaging the key as well as the ignition cylinder. Use a tack-hammer instead of an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these methods but you're not able to get rid of your car key, it could be time to contact an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to securely disassemble your car ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. However, it will eventually end up dying just like other devices that are powered by batteries. You can replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be as good as new.
First, you'll need locate the correct battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your car or asking a locksmith in your area which type of battery they use. You can purchase a replacement battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may have to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to employ a soft tool, such as a fingernail, or screwdriver to open the fob apart without damaging the internals.
Insert the new battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in line. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge correctly. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.
Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at the vehicle. Now it's time to get in your car and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be a pro in changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more information on how you can fix your vehicle at home. If you're not prepared yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repair services.
Bent Key
The last thing you would like to happen to your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock, or even worse, to become stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repairable. However when the key is too deep and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The key may be worn out and unable to engage the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean that you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or a key.
If the key can be inserted into the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll have to flatten it out using an hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or key. Alternatively, you could utilize the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It could take several tries to get the key back into the proper alignment.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it is a sign that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't engaging the wafers inside the lock correctly. If this is the case, a replacement key will be required as soon as is possible. You can accomplish this by taking the stub of your key back to the dealership where you bought your car from and asking for a VIN-cut key that is identical to the old key. This is much easier and less expensive than trying to bend your existing key back to form.