Why Your car key repair service Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons your car key repairs may not turn. Some are simple fixes and others require more technical knowledge or help from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't contain chip by choosing a matching key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. The process typically takes a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key will stop working at the worst possible time. For instance, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or heading to the gym. Even when you are heading home after a long day at work. If the problem is caused by a deadlock or your key fob, it's usually simple to repair. This can help you avoid having to purchase a brand new car.
If your key fob isn't holding a charge the first thing you should do is replace the battery. This often fixes the problem particularly if you've been using it for a while and it's been tossed around frequently. If you're still having issues making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will aid.
Transponder chips may be embedded in the plastic head on your key if you own a newer car. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique codes when your key was inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" which either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle or blocks it from beginning.
It is possible to reset the chip by yourself if you follow the instructions in the owner's manual. It may involve opening and closing doors, turning on and off lights or electronic devices and pressing a number of buttons in a certain order. If you're not able to do this yourself, it's important to note that most locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram these keys at a cost. Some mobile car key repair dealerships are able to perform this task for you, but may require proof of ownership documents and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a basic 3D geometry shape. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved area at a set distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in many car engine components.
You may also need to replace the cylinder in case your key fails. This is a relatively inexpensive repair that is usually possible to do yourself. If you are skilled with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock from your local auto parts shop and replace it according to the guidelines in the owner's manual. It's not always a simple process and it's easier to let someone else handle it.
If your car key repair service keys don't turn on the engine or go into the ignition, it could be an issue with the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to try changing the battery of your key fob first. This could resolve the issue. Your key fob will be used a lot and jostled, so it might require cleaning and changed.
This is usually done either by an auto dealership or locksmiths, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting an area hardware store that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store can usually cut a standard car key and supply a spare, while the dealer will require the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to make the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys take a beating. They can get tangled in drawers, purses and pockets, and bent in difficult-to-access places. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves of your key to ensure that they are clean and intact. If they're not then the grooves will eventually get worn down, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
There are many things you can try to 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, move the key into and out of the ignition to help it align properly with the internal components.
A key jamming in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers within the cylinder. This could result in the pins failing to drop correctly, which can prevent the key from being inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder can help to re-align these tumblers, ensuring that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.
Some recommend that you tap the end of the ignition key using the hammer of a small size. This could damage the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. Make use of a tack-hammer instead the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these methods but you're not able to get rid of your car key, it could be time to call an expert. A qualified mechanic or locksmith will be able to safely disassemble the ignition and extract your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. However, it is likely to end up dying just like other devices powered by batteries. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as good as new.
First, you'll need locate the correct battery. The best place to begin is by reading your owner's manual or asking locksmiths about the kind of battery your vehicle utilizes. Then, you can purchase an equivalent replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may also need to disassemble the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail, or screwdriver, to pry the fob apart without causing internal damage.
Once you have opened the key fob then carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in line. The battery won't be able charge properly if you don't do this. Once the battery is in place close the key fob and then snap it back together.
Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at the vehicle. If everything is working as it should then it's time to get into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert in replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Make sure you follow our blog for more advice on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're not sure to repair your key, we can help with affordable key fob repairs.
Bent Key
The final thing you want to happen with your car key is that it gets bent in the lock or even worse, stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can usually be fixed. However when the key is too far in and is unable to be removed with normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.
The key might be too worn out to engage the lock wafers correctly. This could mean that you need an ignition cylinder that is new, or a key.
If the key can be inserted into the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned properly, you will need to flatten it out using the help of a hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or the key. You can also use the flat end on a pair needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It may require a few tries to get the key back in alignment.
If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it is a sign that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't engaging the wafers in the lock properly. In this case you'll require an entirely new key as soon as you can. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealership where you purchased your car from and asking for a VIN-cut key that is identical to the previous key. This is a lot easier and cheaper than trying to bend your current key back to form.