Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car key may not turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical expertise or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without a chip using a key blank that is identical to your current key. They then utilize a machine to duplicate the contours. This process typically takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes a car key can not work at the most inconvenient times - for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk while heading to the gym or heading home after a long day. The good news is that if the problem is due to a key fob battery or a dead lock it is usually very simple to repair and could help you save the cost of an expensive replacement.
The first thing you can try is to replace the battery on your key fob in case it's not holding a charge anymore. This is a good solution, especially when your key fob has been jostled frequently. If you're still struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will help.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, it might contain a transponder chip inside the head of your plastic key. The idea behind it is to be a more effective anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code each time your key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine, or rejects it and stops your car from beginning.
Based on the model of your vehicle You may be able to reset the chip on your own by following the steps in the owner's guide. It could require opening and closing doors, turning on and off lights or electronics and pressing 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 will perform this task for you, but may require proof of ownership and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a form with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface at an exact distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Examples of real-world cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also used in the manufacture of car engine components.
It is also possible to replace the cylinder if your key breaks. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can typically do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto parts store and follow the instructions in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy task and it's easier to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys do not start the engine or turn on the ignition, it could be a problem with the battery or cylinder. It is a good idea to try changing the battery in your key fob first. This could fix the issue. The key fob you have is likely to get frequent use and is moved around a lot, which is why it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your car.
This is usually handled by locksmiths or your car dealership, depending on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model car, it is worth visiting the local hardware store that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store should be capable of cutting the standard key and supply you with an extra. However the dealer might need your VIN number or proof ownership to be able to make a new replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can be damaged. They are tossed around in purses, pockets and drawers, and can even be bent in a hard-to-reach place. This is why it's important to check the grooves of your key to ensure that they're clean and in good condition. If car key fob repair near me of the key will eventually wear out and make it difficult to insert and remove the key.
If your key is stuck in the ignition there are a couple of different things you can do to assist it. Try using a spare key to determine if the issue lies with the key or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to ensure that it is properly align with the internal components.
A key jamming inside the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misaligned small tumblers inside the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop properly and block the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder may aid in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
Some recommend tapping the end of the ignition key using an hammer that is small. This could damage the ignition cylinder as well as the key. It's better to employ a tack hammer to knock the key off, but be cautious not to strike 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 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 vehicle. Unfortunately, as with all things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually fail. You can replace the batteries yourself and your key fob will be as good as new.
The first step is to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a locksmith at your local store which kind of battery it is. You can purchase batteries at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may also need to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail, or screwdriver to open 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 if you don't make this a priority. Once the battery is in place close the key fob and then snap it back to its original position.
Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it towards the vehicle. It's now time to get in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. Before you know it interruptions in your life will be no problem because you'll be a master at car key battery replacement. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more information on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're still not ready for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you would wish to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or even worse, to become stuck inside. This kind of key can usually be repaired. However in the event that the key is too far into and is unable to be removed with normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
The key might be too worn out to connect the lock wafers in a proper. It could be a sign that you need to replace the ignition cylinder, or just purchase a new one.
If the key can still be inserted into the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned properly, then you'll need to flatten it with the help of a Hammer. Be sure to employ a soft-faced hammer so as not to damage the lock cylinder or key. You could also make use of the flat end on a pair needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It might require a few tries to bring the key back in the proper alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it means that the teeth have become overly worn and are not engaging the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. If this is the case, a replacement key is required immediately. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealer you purchased your vehicle from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's identical to the previous key. This is much simpler and cheaper than trying the key you have already got back in shape.