Why Your car key repair service Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your car key may not turn. Some are easy fixes, while others require some technical expertise or assistance from an expert.
AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't have chips by choosing the right key blank and using a machine to copy the contours of your current key. This service typically only takes a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car key will stop working at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk, on your way to the gym or home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the problem is due to your key fob battery or a dead lock, it's typically a simple solve and may save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
If your key fob isn't holding a charge, the first thing to do is replace the battery. This can often fix the issue, especially if you've had it for a while and it's been tossed around a lot. If you're still struggling, a quick trip to your local AutoZone could assist.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle it may contain a transponder in the head of your key. It is designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when the key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" that either allows you to start your car's engine or denies it from starting.
You may be able 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 electronics, and pressing a series of buttons in a particular sequence. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships will do this for you but may require proof of ownership papers and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a fundamental 3D shape in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface at a fixed distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car remote key fob repair engine parts.
You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key breaks. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you could do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder from your 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 better to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys won't turn on the engine or turn on the ignition, it could be a problem with the cylinder or battery. Change the battery in your key fob is one of the first things to do, and it may solve the issue. Your key fob will be used a lot and jostled, so it may require cleaning and reprogrammed.
This is usually performed by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, based on the kind of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, you should consider visiting a local hardware store that specializes in automotive locks or keys. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and provide a spare, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to create an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can become damaged. They get jumbled around in purses, pockets and drawers, and could even be bent in a difficult-to-access area. That's why it's important to regularly check the grooves of your keys 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 remove and insert the key.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to aid in removing it. Try using a spare key to determine if the problem lies with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, you can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is properly align with the internal components.
A key jamming inside the ignition cylinder may be caused by misalignment of small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins to fall off incorrectly and prevent the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder can assist in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key can easily come out of the ignition.
Some recommend tapping the end of the ignition key using a small hammer. This could cause damage to the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. It is safer to employ a tack hammer to knock the key down, however, be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried these suggestions but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it may be time to call an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the car ignition and then remove the key.
Battery
The car key fob is a handy tool that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle. However, it is likely to die like all things powered by batteries. Luckily, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as great as new.
The first step is to locate the correct battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle, or asking a local locksmith what type of battery it uses. Then, buy a compatible replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so this, make sure you make use of a soft tool, such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing internal damage.
After 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 aligned. The battery will not be able to charge properly if you don't do this. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. It's time to step into your repair car key remote and enjoy the newly restored mobile key repair. You'll soon be a pro at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Check out our blog for more information on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure, we offer affordable key repairs fob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to happen with your car key is that it gets bent in the lock, or worse, it gets stuck inside. Luckily, this type 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 solution is to replace it.
The key may be too worn out to connect the lock wafers in a proper. This could also mean that you require a new ignition cylinder, or the key.
If the key is in a position to be placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned properly then you'll need an hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to prevent damaging the lock cylinder or key. You can also use the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It may take several attempts to get the key into the right position.
If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, it means that the teeth are terribly worn out and no longer engage the wafers correctly. In this instance you'll require an entirely new key as soon as you can. You can accomplish this by taking the key stub back to the dealer you bought your vehicle from and requesting an VIN-cut key that's identical to the old key. This is much easier and less expensive than trying bend your current key back into shape.