5 Car Key Repair Lessons From The Pros

Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are a variety of reasons that your key isn't turning. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical expertise or expert assistance.

AutoZone associates can substitute for 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. This process usually takes a few minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the most inconvenient time. For instance, if you are putting groceries in the trunk or heading to the gym. Or even when you're returning home from a long workday. The good news is that if the issue is caused by your key fob battery or dead lock it is generally easy to fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.

The first thing you can try is to replace the battery in your key fob if it's not holding a charge anymore. This is a good solution particularly in the event that your key fob has been jostled often. If you still have problems then a visit to your local AutoZone might be able help.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, it might contain a transponder in the head of your key. These chips are designed to be more efficient in preventing theft. They emit unique code each time your key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" which either allows you to start the engine of your vehicle, or rejects and prevents it from beginning.

It is possible to reset the chip on your own by following the directions in the owner's manual. It is possible 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 or manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships also do this, but they may require proof of ownership as well as a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a basic 3D shape in geometry. It's a form with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface at a fixed distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of car key repairs engine components.

If a key fails, you may need to replace the cylinder too. This is an inexpensive repair that you could do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto part store and follow the directions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. However, it's not always an easy task and is often better to have a professional take care of it for you.

If your Mobile car key repair keys aren't getting into the ignition or starting the engine, the issue could be due to the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to try changing the battery on your key fob first. This may fix the problem. Your key fob is bound to get a lot used and bumped around, which means it might need to be cleaned and reset.

It is usually carried out by an auto dealership or a locksmith, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth trying a local hardware store that has a specialization in automotive locks or keys. A hardware store can usually cut the standard car key and supply an extra key, whereas the dealer will require the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to create the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys can be damaged over time. They are tossed around in pockets, purses and drawers, and could even be bent in a hard-to-reach place. This is why it's important to regularly check the grooves on your key to make sure they're in good shape and clean. If they aren't, the grooves of the key will eventually wear away, making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

There are a variety of options you can use to get your key off the ignition. Try using a spare to determine if the problem lies with the key or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to allow it to get aligned with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key is jammed in the ignition cylinder, which could happen when the small tumblers inside the cylinder are not aligned. This could cause the pins to not drop correctly and prevent the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder could assist in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Some people might 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 ignition cylinder. Use a tack-hammer instead of a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.

If you've tried all of these methods but you're still unable to get rid of your car key, it might be time to consult a professional. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to remove the ignition and retrieve your key.

Battery

The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car key fob repairs. However, it will eventually die like all things that are powered by batteries. Luckily, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as good as new.

First, you'll need to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your car or asking a local locksmith which type of battery it uses. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. It is also possible to take apart your key fob to locate the battery slot. If you do, 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.

Insert the new battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge correctly. Once the battery is in place, close the key fob and snap it back together.

Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. It's now time to get in your car key repair cost and enjoy your newly restored key. You'll soon be an expert in replacing the car key battery. Good luck! Follow our blog for more tips on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready, we offer affordable key fob replacements.

Bent Key

The last thing you would wish to happen to your car key and repair key is for it to get bent in the lock or even worse, to become stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can usually be repaired. If the key is stuck for too long and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.

The most common issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is that it has become excessively worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean that you need an ignition cylinder that is new, or an ignition key.

If the key is able to be inserted in the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned properly, you will need to flatten it out with a hammer. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or key. Alternatively, you could make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It could take a few attempts to bring the key back in alignment.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder it is a sign that the teeth are excessively worn and are not connecting the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. In this case you'll need a new key as soon as you can. You can do this by bringing 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 simpler and less expensive than trying to bend the key you have already got into shape.