Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many possible reasons why your 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 an identical key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This service typically only takes a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car key will stop working at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading groceries into your trunk while heading to the gym or home after a long day. car key repair service is that if the issue is due to a key fob battery or a dead lock it is usually very simple to solve and may save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
If your key fob isn't keeping a charge, the first thing you should do is replace the battery. This usually solves the issue particularly if you've been using it for a while and it's been jostled around a lot. If you're still experiencing issues it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone could be able to help.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle it may contain a transponder in the head of your key. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device, these chips 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 accepts and starts the engine of your vehicle or blocks it from beginning.
Based on the model of your vehicle, you may be in a position to reset the chip by following the steps in your owner's manual. It could include closing and opening doors or turning off lights or electronics, and pressing a set of buttons in a particular order. If you're unable to do this by yourself, you need to know that locksmiths and the manufacturer can reprogram the keys for a fee. Some car dealerships also perform this, however they might require proof of ownership as well as a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D shape in geometry. It's a form that has two circular bases connected with a curved surface at an undefined distance from the center. This is known as the height of a cylindrical. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine parts.
You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key breaks. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and is typically feasible to carry out. If you are skilled with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock at your local auto parts store and replace it in accordance with the directions in the owner's manual. It's not always a simple process, and it's often easier to have a professional take care of it for you.
If your car keys are not entering the ignition or turning on the engine, the problem could be related to the cylinder or battery. Change the battery in your key fob is one of the first things you should do, and it may fix the problem. The key fob you have is likely to get lots of use and is tossed around a lot, so sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car.
This is usually handled by locksmiths or your car dealership, depending on the kind of car you have. If you own an older model, you should consider visiting a local hardware store that has a specialization in keys for automotive locks. A hardware store should be able to cut an ordinary key and provide you with a spare. However the dealer might need your VIN number or proof of ownership to be able to make an alternative replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys may be damaged. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. It is essential to examine the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they are clean and intact. If they aren't the grooves will eventually wear down and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.
There are a variety of options you can use to free your key from the ignition. First try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is related to the key or the ignition switch. Then, move the key in and out of the ignition to help it get aligned with the internal components.
A key jamming in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misaligned small tumblers within the cylinder. This can cause the pins not to drop properly, preventing the key from being inserted successfully. You can align the tumblers using an oil for locks, or graphite.
Finally, some people may suggest tapping the edge of the key with the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this could actually damage the key and the ignition cylinder. You can use a tack hammer instead of the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these suggestions but are not able 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 safely remove the ignition and retrieve your key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. However, it will eventually die like all things powered by batteries. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as excellent as new.
First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your car or asking a locksmith at your local store which kind of battery they use. Then, you can purchase an equivalent replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may have to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is essential to make use of a soft tool like a fingernail or screwdriver, to pry the fob open without creating internal damage.
Place the battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match to each other. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge correctly. Once the battery is fully charged, close the key fob and snap it back to its original position.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything functions just as it should you can hop into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for more information on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're not ready yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The most undesirable thing that could occur with your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or worse, it gets stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too far and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, then the only option is replacing it.
Generally speaking, the issue with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is that it has become overly worn and is no longer engaging the lock wafers correctly. It could be an indication that you must replace the ignition cylinder, or just get a new key.
If the key is capable of being placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned in the right way then you'll need an hammer to flatten the key. Make sure to employ a soft-faced hammer so as to not damage the lock cylinder or key. Alternatively, you could use the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It could take several tries to get the key in the proper alignment.
If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, this means that the teeth are overly worn out and cannot effectively engage the wafers. If this is the case, a new key will be needed immediately. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealership where you bought your vehicle from and requesting the VIN-cut keys that are exactly like your old key. This is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend the key you have already got to form.