Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your car keys won't turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical knowledge or assistance from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without a chip using a key blank that is a match to your existing key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. This process usually takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will be inoperable at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk on the way to the gym or home after an exhausting day. If the issue is due to a deadlock or a key fob, it's usually easy to repair. This can save you from having to purchase a brand new car.
The first step is replacing the battery in your key fob if it's not holding a charge anymore. This often fixes the problem particularly if you've been using it for a while and it's been tossed around a lot. If you're still experiencing issues it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to assist.
Transponder chips could 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 the chips emit a unique number of codes when your key is put into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" that either allows you to start the engine of your vehicle or denies it from starting.
Depending on the specific model of your car You may be able to reset the chip by following the directions in the owner's guide. It may require closing and opening doors, turning on and off lights or electronic devices and pressing a set of buttons in a specific sequence. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships will assist you in this process, but they may require proof of ownership papers and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape that has two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface that is a fixed distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also used in car engine components.
You might also have to replace the cylinder if your key fails. This is a simple repair that you could do yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto parts store and follow the steps in your owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy process and it's more convenient to let someone else handle it.
If your car keys do not turn on the engine or enter the ignition, it could be a problem with the battery or cylinder. It is recommended to change the battery in your key fob first. This could fix the problem. Your key fob is bound to get a lot used and jostled, so it might require cleaning and changed.
This is usually done by a locksmith or your car dealership, based on the model of car you own. If you have an older model vehicle It is recommended to visit a local hardware shop that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store will usually be capable of cutting a standard key and provide you with an additional. However the dealer might require the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership in order to create the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys get beaten. They can get tangled in drawers, purses, and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. This is why it's important to regularly check the grooves on your key to ensure that they're in good shape and clean. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear away and make it difficult to remove and insert the key.
If your key becomes stuck in the ignition there are alternatives you can take to help it out. First try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, move the key into and out of the ignition to ensure that it is properly align with the internal components.
A key jamming in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misaligned small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop correctly, preventing the key from being successfully inserted. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder could help to re-align these tumblers, so the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.
Some recommend that you tap the end of the ignition key with a small hammer. This could damage the ignition cylinder and the key. Make use of a tack-hammer instead an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.
If you have tried all of these tips but are still unable remove your car keys, it might be time to call an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it simple to lock or unlock your vehicle. However, it is likely to go out of service, just like everything else powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as great as new.
First, you'll need find the right battery. The best way to begin is by reading the owner's manual, or speaking with a locksmith about the type of battery your car uses. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. It is possible to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. If so this, make sure you make use of a soft tool, such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing internal damage.
Insert the new battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure remote key fob repair and negative sides of the batteries are aligned. Otherwise the battery won't be able to charge correctly. Once the battery is installed, close the key fob and snap it back to its original position.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. It's time to get in your car and enjoy your newly restored key. Before you know it interruptions in your life won't be an issue because you'll be an expert in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Make sure you follow our blog for more advice on how you can fix your vehicle at home. If you're not sure, we offer affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or worse, get stuck inside. This type of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too far and cannot be removed by normal twisting, then the only option is replacing it.
The key may be too worn out to connect the lock wafers in a proper. It could also be a sign that you need to replace the ignition cylinder or simply purchase a new key.
If the key can still be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll have to flatten it with the help of a hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock's cylinder or key. You could also utilize the flat end of pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into alignment. It may require a few tries to bring the key back in alignment.
If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it means that the teeth have become overly worn and are no longer engaging the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. If this is the case, a new key will be needed as soon as is possible. You can do this by taking the key stub back to the dealership you bought your vehicle from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's identical to the previous key. This is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend the key you have already got into shape.