Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your car key won't turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical expertise or professional help.
AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't contain chip by choosing the right key blank and utilizing a machine to copy the contours of your current key. The process usually takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key will stop functioning at the worst time. For instance, if you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you're returning home from a long workday. The good news is that when the problem is due to your key fob battery or dead lock it is typically a simple fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.
The first step is to replace the battery in your key fob in case it's not charging anymore. This is a great solution particularly when your key fob has been jostled often. If you still have problems then a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to help.
Transponder chips can be found in the plastic head on your key fob repair service if driving a newer vehicle. Designed to be a better anti-theft device they emit a unique code each time your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then read and processed by the "immobilizer" which either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle, or rejects and prevents it from starting.
It is possible to reset the chip by yourself if you follow the instructions in the owner's manual. It may require opening and closing doors or turning off lights or electronic car key repair near me devices and pressing a set of buttons in a certain sequence. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to modify your keys if you are unable to do it yourself. Some car dealerships are able to assist you in this process, but they may require proof of ownership papers and a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface that is a set distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Toilet rolls as well as cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine components.
You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key fails. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can usually do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder from the local auto parts store and follow the steps in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy task, and it's often easier to let a professional handle it for you.
If your car keys aren't being inserted into the ignition or starting the engine, the issue could be due to the cylinder or battery. It is a good idea to try changing the battery of your key fob first. This could fix the issue. Your remote key repair fob will be used a lot and jostled, so it may require cleaning and changed.
This is usually performed by locksmiths or your car dealership, based on the type of car you own. If you have an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys or car key immobiliser repair locks for automobiles. A hardware store will typically cut a standard car key and give you an extra key, whereas the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or evidence of ownership in order to make an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys get beaten. They may get lost in purses, drawers and pockets, and even bent in hard-to-reach places. That's why it's important to regularly inspect the grooves on your key to make sure they're clean and in good condition. If they're not, the grooves will eventually become worn making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
There are a variety of things you can try to remove your key from the ignition. First, try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, move your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.
A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers in the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop correctly and prevent the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder could help to re-align these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.
In addition, some may recommend tapping the end of the key with a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this could actually damage the key repair shops near me and the ignition cylinder. It is safer to use a tack hammer to knock the key off, however, be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you have tried all of these methods but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it could be time to contact a professional. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to disassemble the ignition and extract your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, it will eventually end up dying just like other devices that are powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as excellent as new.
The first step is to locate the correct battery. The best place to start is to read your owner's manual, or speaking with locksmiths about the kind of battery your car utilizes. Then, buy the appropriate replacement from an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may have to take apart your key fob to find the battery slot. It is essential to use a soft tool, such as a fingernail or screwdriver, to pry the fob open without causing 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 up. The battery won't be able to charge properly in the absence of this. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.
Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything works as it should then it's time to get in and take a look at your newly restored car key. In a matter of minutes interruptions to your day will not be a problem since you'll be a master in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Follow our blog for more information on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not quite ready, we offer affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The final thing you want to happen with your car key Repair is for it to become bent in the lock, or even worse, gets stuck inside. Luckily, this kind of key can be repaired. However in the event that the key is too far in and cannot be removed using normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The most common issue with a key getting stuck in the ignition is that it has become overly worn and is not engaging the lock wafers properly. This could also mean you require an ignition cylinder that is new, or an ignition key.
If the key is able to be inserted into the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned properly, you'll have to flatten it out using the help of a Hammer. Be sure to employ a soft-faced hammer so as to not damage the key or lock cylinder. You can also make use of the flat end on needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few tries to get the key in the proper alignment.
If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it could be that the teeth have become excessively worn and are no longer engaging the wafers inside the lock correctly. If this is the case, a replacement key will be required as soon as possible. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealer you bought your car from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to your old key. This is a lot easier and cheaper than trying your existing key to get back into shape.