10 Car Key Repair Tips All Experts Recommend

Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons why your car key won't turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical expertise or professional help.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't have chips by choosing a matching key blank and utilizing a machine to copy the contours of your existing key. The process typically takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For example, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or heading to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you're returning back home after a long working day. If the problem is caused by a deadlock or your key fob, it's usually simple to fix. This can help you avoid having to purchase a brand new vehicle.

If your key fob is not holding a charge, the first thing you should do is replace the battery. This usually solves the issue, especially if you've had it for a while and it's been jostled around a lot. If you're still having issues it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to assist.

Transponder chips may be embedded inside the head of plastic on your key if you own a more modern vehicle. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit a unique code each time your key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" which either allows you to start your car's engine or blocks it from beginning.

You might be able to reset the chip on your own by following the instructions in the owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights and press a series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to change the keys in case you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships are able to perform this task for you, but may require proof of ownership papers and the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a fundamental 3D geometry shape. It's a form that has two circular bases joined by an elongated surface, which is an exact distance from the center. This is called the height of a cylindrical. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in the manufacture of car engine components.

If a key is damaged it is possible to replace the cylinder, too. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can usually do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder from the local auto parts store and follow the directions in your owner's manual to replace it. However, it's not always an easy task and is often better to let a professional handle it for you.

If your car keys are not getting into the ignition or turning on the engine, it might be with the cylinder or battery. It is a good idea to test changing the battery on your key fob first. This could resolve the problem. Your key fob is bound to get a lot used and tossed around, so it could need to be cleaned and reprogrammed.

This is usually performed by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, depending on the type of car you have. If you own an older model vehicle it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that specialises in automotive keys or locks. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and provide an extra key, whereas the dealer will require the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to create an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time, our keys take a beating. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses and pockets, or bent in hard-to-reach places. This is why it's important to regularly check the grooves on your key to make sure they are clean and intact. If they aren't, the grooves will eventually get worn down making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are several ways you can get your key off the ignition. Try using a spare key to determine if the problem lies with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, jiggle your keys into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.

A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misaligned small tumblers in the cylinder. This could result in the pins failing to drop properly, preventing the mobile key fob repair from being inserted successfully. You can re-align the tumblers by using a lock lubricant, or graphite.

Some people might suggest tapping the edge of the key with a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this could cause damage to the key and the ignition cylinder. Make use of a tack-hammer instead an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.

If you've tried these suggestions but still aren't able to get rid of your repair car key keys, it may be time to contact a professional. A professional locksmith or mechanic can securely disassemble your car ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The electronic car key repair near me key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. However, it is likely to die like all things that are powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as good as new.

First, you'll need to find the right battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle or asking a locksmith in your area what type of battery they use. Then, purchase the appropriate replacement from a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. It is important to make use of a soft tool like a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob out without creating internal damage.

Place the battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in line. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge properly. Once the battery is fully charged close the key fob, then snap it back together.

Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it towards the vehicle. It's time to hop in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be a pro in changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Follow our blog for more information on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not prepared yet, we can provide low-cost keyfob keyless entry repairs.

Bent Key

The most undesirable thing that could happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. However, if the key is too far in and cannot be removed using normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.

The most common issue with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is that it is excessively worn and is not engaging the lock wafers correctly. It may also be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder or just purchase a new one.

If the key is in a position to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned properly it will require an hammer to flatten the key. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft so as not to damage the lock cylinder or key. Alternately, you can use the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It may require several attempts to get the key back in the proper alignment.

If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it means that the teeth have become overly worn and aren't engaging the wafers inside the lock properly. If this is the case, a new key is required as soon as possible. You can do this by taking the stub of your key back to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle from and requesting an VIN-cut key that's identical to the old key. This is a lot easier and less expensive than attempting to change the key you have already got back into shape.