Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your car key may not turn. Some are simple fixes and others require some technical expertise or assistance from an expert.
AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without a chip using a key blank that is a match to your existing key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. This service usually takes only minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes a car key can stop working at the most unavoidable times - like when you're loading groceries into your trunk while heading to the gym or heading home after a long day. The good news is that if the issue 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 is not charging The first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This is a viable option, especially if your key fob has been tossed around often. If you're still having issues, a quick trip to your local AutoZone can aid.
Transponder chips may be embedded in the head of plastic on your key if you drive a more modern car. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code when your key is inserts into the ignition. The signal is then read and processed by the "immobilizer" which either starts and accepts your car's engine, or rejects and prevents it from starting.
Based on the model of your vehicle depending on the model, you might be able to reset the chip by following the directions in the owner's guide. It may include closing and opening doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronics and pressing a number of buttons in a particular order. If you're unable to accomplish this by yourself, you need to note that most locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram the keys for a fee. Some car dealerships also do this, but they might require proof of ownership as well as an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D shape in geometry. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by an elongated surface, which is a fixed distance away from the center. This is referred to as the height of the cylindrical. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also used in car engine parts.
If a key is damaged it is possible to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and is typically feasible to carry out. If you are skilled with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock at the local auto parts store and then replace it according to the instructions in the owner's manual. However, it's not always a simple process and it's usually better to let a professional handle it for you.
If your car keys won't start the engine or enter the ignition, it could be an issue with the cylinder or battery. The battery change in your key fob is one of the first things you need to do, and it may solve the issue. The key fob you have is likely to get a lot of use and is moved around a lot, so sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your vehicle.
This is usually done either by a car dealership or locksmiths, based on the type of vehicle you have. If you have an older model, you should consider visiting a local hardware store that is specialized in keys or locks for automobiles. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and provide a spare, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to create an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys take a beating. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses, and pockets, or bent in hard-to-reach places. It is crucial to check the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure that they are clear and in good condition. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear away, making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
There are a variety of options you can use to get your key off the ignition. First try using an extra key to determine if the problem is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, 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 may be caused by misaligned small tumblers in the cylinder. This can cause the pins to not drop properly and block the key from being inserted or removed successfully. You can align the tumblers with the lock lubricant or graphite.
Some people might suggest tapping the edge of the key with a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this can actually damage the key and the cylinder that controls ignition. Make use of a tack-hammer instead a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.
If you have tried all of these methods but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it might be time to call a professional. A professional locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the ignition of your car and take out your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a handy tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, just like all things that run on batteries - it will eventually die. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as good as new.
You'll first need to find the correct battery. The best place to begin is by reading your owner's manual or asking locksmiths about the kind of battery your vehicle utilizes. Then, you can purchase an equivalent replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may have to take apart your key fob to find the battery slot. It is crucial to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail, or screwdriver to open the fob apart without damaging the internals.
Once you have opened the key fob then carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure the positive and the negative sides of the batteries are in sync. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge properly. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything is working just as it should then it's time to get into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert in changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Check out our blog for more advice on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready, we offer affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you would like to happen to your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or worse, get stuck inside. This type of key is usually repairable. If key repair for car is stuck too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.
Generally speaking, the issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is that it has become excessively worn and isn't working properly with the lock wafers. It could also be a sign that you need to replace the ignition cylinder or simply purchase a new key.
If the key is still able to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned in the right way, you will need an hammer to flatten the key. Make sure you use a soft-faced hammer so as to not damage the lock cylinder or the key. You can also make use of the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It may take a few tries to get the key back into the right position.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it is a sign that the teeth are excessively worn and are not engaging the wafers in the lock correctly. In this situation you'll require to replace your key as quickly as you can. This can be accomplished by taking the stub of your key to the dealership from which you bought your car, and request the VIN cut key that is exactly identical to the old one. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying bend the key you have already got to form.