Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons your car key may not turn. Some are simple fixes while others require a bit more technical knowledge or help from an expert.
AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without chip using a key blank that matches your existing key. They then use a machine duplicate the contours. The process usually takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For instance, if you are loading groceries into the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you are heading home from a long workday. If the problem is due to a deadlock or a key fob, it's generally easy to solve. This can save you from needing to purchase a new car.
If your key fob is not charging, the first thing you should do is replace the battery. This is a good solution, especially if your key fob has been jostled a lot. If you're still having issues, a quick trip to your local AutoZone will aid.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, it could have a transponder chip in the head of your plastic key. The idea behind it is to be a more effective anti-theft device the chips emit a unique number of codes when your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer", which either starts and accepts your car's engine or blocks it from starting.
Based on the model of your vehicle, you may be in a position to reset the chip by following the steps in the owner's guide. It could include opening and closing doors, turning on and off lights or electronics, and pressing a number of buttons in a specific sequence. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to modify your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships also perform this, however they may require proof of ownership and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most basic 3D geometric shapes. It's a form with two circular bases connected by a curved surface at an exact distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls and cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of car engine parts.
When a key breaks it is possible to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive repair that is usually possible to do yourself. If you're 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. But, it's not always an easy task, and it's often easier to let a professional handle it for you.
If your car keys aren't getting into the ignition or turning on the engine, the issue might be with the cylinder or the battery. Changing the battery on your key fob is among 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 tossed around a lot, so often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your vehicle.
This is usually done either by the car dealership or by a locksmith, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth trying a local hardware store that is specialized in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store should be able to cut a standard key and provide you with a spare. However, the dealer may require your VIN number or proof of ownership to be able to make an alternative replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can be damaged over time. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses, and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves of your keys to ensure that they're clean and in good condition. If not the grooves of the key will eventually wear away, making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
If your key is stuck in the ignition there are a couple of alternatives you can take to help it out. First try using an extra key to determine if the problem is 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 could be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop correctly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. You can align the tumblers using a lock lubricant, or graphite.
Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key with a small hammer. This can damage the ignition cylinder as well as the key. It is safer to employ a tack hammer to knock the key down, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried these tips and are not able to get rid of your car key, it may be time to contact an expert. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. However, it is likely to die like all things that are powered by batteries. You can replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob is just as good 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 in your area which kind of battery it uses. Then, purchase a compatible replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. It is essential to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail or screwdriver, to pry the fob open without causing internal damage.
The battery should be inserted carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line up. Otherwise the battery won't be able to charge correctly. Close the key fob once the battery is installed.
Test out your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at the vehicle. If everything functions according to plan, it's time to hop into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Make sure you 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 want to happen with your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. This type of key can usually be repaired. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, then the only option is to replace it.
The key might be too worn out to engage the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you need a new ignition cylinder, or a key.
If the key can still be inserted in the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned correctly, then you will need to flatten it out using the help of a hammer. Be sure to employ a soft-faced hammer so as not to damage the lock cylinder or the key. You can also use the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It might require several attempts to bring the key back into its proper position.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, it means that the teeth are terribly worn out and cannot properly engage the wafers. If this is the case, a replacement key is required immediately. car key repair service can be accomplished by taking the stub of your key to the dealer where you bought your car, and soliciting the VIN cut key that is exactly identical to the old one. This is much simpler and cheaper than trying your current key to get back in shape.