Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car keys won't turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical expertise or professional help.
AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't have a chip by selecting the right key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. The process typically takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For instance, if you are putting groceries in the trunk or on your way to the gym. Or even when you're returning home from a long workday. If the issue is caused by a deadlock or your key fob, it's generally simple to fix. This could help you avoid needing to purchase a new car.
If your key fob isn't holding a charge The first thing to do is replace the battery. This often fixes the problem, especially if you've had it for a while and has been jostled around a lot. If you're still having issues then a visit to your local AutoZone could be able to help.
Transponder chips may be embedded inside the head of plastic on your key if you own an older model car. It is designed to be a more effective anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when your key is put into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" which either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle or denies it from starting.
Depending on key car repair of your car You may be capable of resetting the chip by following the instructions in the owner's guide. You may have to open and close doors, switch on and off electronics or lights and press a series of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to modify your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships will assist you in this process, but they might require proof of ownership and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is one of the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface at a fixed distance away from the center. This is called the height of the Cylinder. Examples of real-world cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine components.
It is also possible to replace the cylinder in case your key fails. This is an inexpensive repair that you can usually do yourself. If you're skilled with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock at the local auto parts store and replace it according to the instructions in the owner's manual. But, it's not always an easy task and it's usually better to let a professional handle it for you.
If your car keys aren't entering the ignition or starting the engine, the issue might be with the cylinder or the battery. The battery change in your key fob is among the first things you need to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob likely gets lots of use and is jostled around a lot, which is why sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your car.
This is usually done either by a car dealership or locksmiths, based on what type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth visiting a local hardware store that has a specialization in automotive locks or keys. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and give you a spare, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or evidence of ownership in order to make a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys are prone to a beating. They can get tangled in purses, drawers and pockets, and even bent in hard-to-reach places. That's why it is so important to check the grooves of your key to ensure that they're in good shape and clean. If not, the grooves of the key will eventually wear away making it difficult to insert and remove the key.
If your key becomes stuck in the ignition, there are a few options to assist it. First try using a spare key to see whether the issue is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, move your key into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.
A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins to fall off incorrectly and block the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key can easily come out of the ignition.
Some people suggest that you tap the tip of the ignition key with the hammer of a small size. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder as well as the key. Make use of a tack-hammer instead the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you have tried these suggestions but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it could be time to consult an expert. A qualified mechanic or locksmith can safely remove the ignition and retrieve your key.
Battery
The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, it will eventually go out of service, just like everything else that are powered by batteries. You can easily replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be just as good as new.
You'll first need to find the correct battery. The best place to start is by reading the owner's manual or asking a locksmith about the type of battery your car uses. Then, purchase a compatible replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. If so, it is important that you use a soft tool such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob, without causing internal damage.
The battery should be inserted carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line up with each other. Otherwise the battery won't be able charge correctly. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.
Test the new key by pressing the button and then pointing it towards the vehicle. Now it's time to get in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. In a matter of minutes interruptions in your life won't be an issue because you'll be a pro in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Check out our blog for more advice on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. This type of key is usually repairable. If the key is stuck too far and cannot be released by normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.
The most common issue with a key getting stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become excessively worn and is no longer engaging the lock wafers properly. This could also mean that you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or an ignition key.
If the key can be inserted in the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned properly, you'll need to flatten it with a Hammer. Make sure you use a hammer that is soft so as to not damage the key or lock cylinder. You can also utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It may require a few tries to bring the key back into the proper alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it is a sign that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't connecting the wafers in the lock correctly. In this instance you'll require to replace your key as quickly as possible. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealership where you bought your vehicle from and requesting a VIN-cut key that is identical to the old key. This is much easier and cheaper than trying to bend the key you have already got into shape.