Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many possible reasons for why your key won't turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical knowledge or assistance from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't have a chip by selecting an identical key blank and using machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This process usually takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For instance, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you're heading home after a long day at work. The good news is that when the problem is caused by your 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 replacing the battery in your key fob in case it's not keeping a charge. This can often fix the issue particularly if you've been using it for a while and has been tossed around a lot. If you still have problems, a quick visit to your local AutoZone could be able to assist.
If you're driving a brand newer vehicle it may contain a transponder chip inside the plastic head of your key. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code each time your key is was inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" that either allows you to start your car's engine or denies it from beginning.
Depending on your specific car, you may be in a position to reset the chip by following the directions in the owner's manual. It may involve opening and closing doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronic devices and pressing a set of buttons in a specific order. If you're not able to do this by yourself, you need to note that most locksmiths and manufacturers are able to modify the keys at a cost. Some car dealerships also do this, but they might require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a form that has two circular bases joined by a curved surface, at an exact distance from the center. This is called the height of a Cylinder. Toilet paper rolls as well as cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine components.
If a key is damaged it is possible to replace the cylinder, too. car key fob repairs near me is a relatively inexpensive fix that you could do yourself. If you are handy with a toolbox you can purchase a new ignition lock from your local auto parts store and then replace it according to the instructions in your owner’s manual. It's not always an easy process 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 cylinder or battery. Changing the battery inside your key fob is one of the first things to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob likely gets a lot of use and is tossed around a lot, and sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your vehicle.
This is usually done either by the car dealership or by locksmiths, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth trying a local hardware store that specializes in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store can usually cut the standard car key and provide a spare, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to create the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can be damaged. They are tossed around in purses, pockets and drawers, and may even be bent in a difficult-to-access place. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves of your keys to make sure they are clean and intact. If not the grooves of the key will eventually wear away making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
There are several ways you can free your key from the ignition. Try using a spare to determine if the problem lies with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys 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 small tumblers within the cylinder. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly and block the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning the tumblers so that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
Some recommend that you tap the end of the ignition key with an hammer that is small. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder and the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of the hammer, but be careful not to 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 could be time to consult an expert. A qualified locksmith or mechanic can securely disassemble your car ignition and then remove the key.
Battery
The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your car. However, it is likely to go out of service, just like everything else powered by batteries. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as great 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 in your area which type of battery they use. You can purchase 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. It is crucial to use a soft tool, like a fingernail or screwdriver to force the fob out without causing internal damage.
After you have opened the key fob and inserted the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match up. The battery won't be able charge properly in the absence of this. Once the battery is in place, close the key fob, then snap it back together.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything functions according to plan then it's time to get into your freshly restored car key. In a matter of minutes interruptions to your day will not be a problem since you'll be an expert at car key battery replacement. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for more information on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're not sure, we offer affordable key fob repairs.
Bent Key
The most undesirable thing that could occur with your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. However, if the key is too far in and is unable to be removed using normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.
The key might be too worn out to connect the lock wafers in a proper. This could also mean you need a new ignition cylinder, or the key.
If the key is able to be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, then you'll need to flatten it out using an Hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock's cylinder or key. You could 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 alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it means that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't engaging the wafers in the lock correctly. In this instance you'll require to replace your key as quickly as possible. This can be done by taking the stub of your key to the dealer where you bought your car and asking for the VIN cut key that is exactly same as your old one. This is much simpler and less expensive than trying to use the key you have already got back to normal.