Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car key may not turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical knowledge or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys, without chip by using a blank key that is a match to your existing key. They then utilize a machine to duplicate the contours. This service usually takes only minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car key will be inoperable at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading groceries into your trunk, on the way to the gym, or when you're heading home after a long day. The good news is that if the problem is due to your key fob battery or a dead lock, it's typically a simple solve and may save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
If your key fob is not holding a charge The first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This can often fix the issue, especially if you've had it for a while, and it's been jostled around a lot. If you're still having trouble taking a trip to your local AutoZone will help.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, it could contain a transponder chip inside the head of your plastic key. It is designed to be a more effective anti-theft device the chips emit a unique number of codes when the key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer", which either accepts and starts your car's engine or blocks it from starting.
It is possible to reset the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights and press a series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are unable to do it yourself. Some car dealerships will also do this, but they might require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a fundamental 3D geometry shape. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by a curved area at a fixed distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Examples of real-world cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of automobile engine parts.
It is also possible to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. It's a fairly inexpensive repair, and it's usually feasible to perform it yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto part store and follow the directions in your owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy process and it's easier to let someone else handle it.
If your car keys aren't getting into the ignition or starting the engine, the problem might be with the cylinder or battery. Change the battery inside your key fob is one of the first things you need to try, and it might solve the issue. Your key fob will be frequently used and tossed around, so it could need to be cleaned and reprogrammed.
This is usually handled by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, based on the kind of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, you should consider visiting a local hardware store that is specialized in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store can usually cut a standard car key and give you an extra key, whereas the dealer will require the VIN number of your car or evidence of ownership in order to make an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys are prone to a beating. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses, and pockets, and even bent in places that are difficult to reach. It is essential to examine the grooves on your key regularly to ensure they're well-maintained and clean. If they're not the grooves will eventually wear down and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key becomes stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to help it out. First try using an alternate key to determine if the problem is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, move the key into and out of the ignition to allow it to get aligned with the internal components.
A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers inside the cylinder. This could result in the pins failing to drop properly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder could help to re-align these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.
Finally, some people may suggest tapping the end of the key using a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this could actually damage the key and the cylinder of ignition. It's better to use a tack hammer to knock the key, but be careful not to strike it too hard.
If you've tried all these methods but you're still unable to remove your car key, it might be time to consult an expert. A qualified locksmith or mechanic will be able to safely disassemble the car ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, 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 is as good as new.
First, you'll need find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle, or asking a local locksmith which type of battery it uses. You can purchase a replacement battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. It is also possible to disassemble the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. If you do it, it is essential that you employ a soft tool such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob without causing any internal damage.
Insert the new battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match to each other. Otherwise, the battery won't be able to charge properly. Close the key fob once the battery is installed.
Test the new key by pressing the button and pointing it at the vehicle. If everything is working just as it should you can hop in and take a look at your newly restored car key. In a matter of minutes, life's interruptions will be no problem because you'll be a master in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Check out our blog for more information on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not ready yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The most undesirable thing that could happen with your car key is for it to become bent inside the lock or even worse, stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can usually be fixed. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be released by normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.
The key could be worn out and not engage the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or an ignition key.
If the key is still capable of being placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned properly then you'll need an hammer to flatten the key. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or the key. mobile car key repair near me can also utilize the flat end of pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into alignment. It could take several tries to get the key back into the right position.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, this means that the teeth are excessively worn out and no longer effectively engage the wafers. If this is the case, a new key will be needed as soon as is possible. You can accomplish this by taking the key stub back to the dealership you bought your vehicle from and requesting a VIN-cut key that is identical to your previous key. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying to bend your current key back into shape.