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 assistance from a professional.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that do not have chips by choosing an identical key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your existing key. The process usually takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient times, for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk while heading to the gym or home after a long day. The good news is that if the issue is due to a key fob battery, or a dead lock, it's usually very simple to repair and could help you save the cost of an expensive replacement.
The first step is to replace the battery on your key fob if it's no longer keeping a charge. This is a viable option, especially if your key fob has been tossed around a lot. If you're still struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will assist.
Transponder chips can be found in the head of plastic on your key if you drive a more modern vehicle. It is designed to be a better anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when your key is put into the ignition. The signal is then scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine, or rejects it and stops your vehicle from beginning.
Depending on your specific car depending on the model, you might be in a position to reset the chip on your own by following the steps in the owner's guide. It is possible to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights and press a series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to change the keys in case you are unable to do it yourself. Some car dealerships can perform this, however they may require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a fundamental 3D shape in geometry. It's a form with two circular bases connected by a curved surface that is an exact distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Examples of real-world cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine components.
When a key breaks it is possible to replace the cylinder too. This is a relatively inexpensive repair that is usually feasible to perform it yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at the local auto parts store and follow the directions in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy process and it's better to let someone else do it.
If your car keys aren't being inserted into the ignition or starting the engine, the problem might be with the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to test changing the battery of your key fob first. This could fix the issue. Your key fob likely gets a lot of use and is jostled around a lot, and it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed to the car.
This is usually handled by locksmiths or your car dealer, based on the model of car you have. If you have an older model car it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that specialises in automotive keys or locks. The hardware store will typically be able to cut the standard key and supply you with an extra. However, the dealer may require your VIN number or proof ownership in order to create the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys take a beating. They may get lost in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in difficult-to-access places. This is why it's important to regularly inspect the grooves of your keys to ensure they are clean and intact. 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 becomes stuck in the ignition there are alternatives you can take to assist it. First try using an alternate key to determine if the problem is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key is stuck in the ignition cylinder that can happen when the tiny tumblers within the cylinder misalign. This can result in the pins failing to drop correctly, which can prevent the key from being properly inserted. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.
Some recommend tapping the end of the ignition key with the hammer of a small size. This can damage the ignition cylinder and the key. key fob repair service near me can use a tack hammer instead of an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.
If you have tried all of these tips but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to call a professional. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified can safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a useful tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your vehicle. However, it is likely to go out of service, just like everything else that are powered by batteries. ignition key repair near me can replace the batteries yourself and your key fob is just 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 they use. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may have to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If you do this, make sure you use a soft tool such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob, without causing internal damage.
Once you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line to each other. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge properly. Once the battery is installed, close the key fob and then snap it back together.
Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything functions according to plan you can hop into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be a pro at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more advice on how you can fix your vehicle at home. If you're not ready yet, we offer affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The most undesirable thing that could occur with your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or worse, it gets stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. However, if the key is too far into and can no longer be removed by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The key could be too worn out to engage the lock wafers correctly. It may be an indication that you should replace the ignition cylinder or just purchase a new one.
If the key can be inserted in the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, then you'll have to flatten it out using a hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or key. You could also make use of the flat end on needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back to align. It might require several attempts to bring the key back into alignment.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it is a sign that the teeth have become excessively worn and are not engaging the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. If this is the case, a new key is required immediately. This can be accomplished by taking the stub of your key to the dealer where you purchased your car and request an VIN cut key that is exactly the identical to the old one. This is much easier and cheaper than trying the key you have already got back to normal.