Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons that your key isn't turning. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or professional help.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without a chip by using a blank key that is identical to your current key. They then utilize a machine to duplicate the contours. This process usually takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the most inconvenient time. For instance, if you are putting groceries in the trunk or on your way to the gym. Or even when you are heading home after a long day at work. The good news is that if the issue is caused by your key fob battery, or a dead lock it is generally easy to fix and could 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 particularly in the event that your key fob has been jostled frequently. If you're still struggling, a quick trip to your local AutoZone could help.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, it could contain a transponder chip inside the head of your key. It is designed to be a more effective anti-theft device they emit a unique code each time your key is put into the ignition. car key fob repair near me is detected by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and starts the engine or denies it and stops your vehicle from beginning.
Based on the model of your vehicle, you may be capable of resetting the chip on your own by following the steps in your owner's manual. It is possible to open and close doors, switch on and off electronic devices or lights, and press series of buttons in a particular order. If you're not able to do this by yourself, you need to note that most locksmiths and the manufacturer can modify the keys for a fee. Some car dealerships can do this, but they might require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a form with two circular bases connected by a curved surface that is a fixed distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in the manufacture of car engine components.
You may also need to replace the cylinder in case your key fails. This is an inexpensive repair that you can typically do yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto part store and follow the steps in your owner's manual to replace it. It's not always a simple process and it's better to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys are not entering the ignition or starting the engine, it could be due to the cylinder or the battery. It is recommended to try changing the battery on your key fob first. This could resolve the issue. The key fob you have is likely to get frequent use and is jostled around a lot, so it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your vehicle.
This is usually performed by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, based on the model of car you own. If you have an older model vehicle it is worth visiting the local hardware store that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store will typically cut the standard car key and give you an alternative, while the dealer will require your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to create a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys may be damaged. They can be jumbled in purses, drawers and pockets, and bent in difficult-to-access places. It is important to check the grooves of your key frequently to ensure that they are well-maintained and clean. If they aren't then the grooves will eventually become worn, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key is stuck in the ignition there are a couple of different things you can do to help it out. First, try using a spare key to see if the problem is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.
A key jamming 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, which can prevent the key from being successfully inserted. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder can help to re-align these tumblers, ensuring that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
Some people suggest that you tap the end of the ignition key with an hammer that is small. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder as well as the key. It is safer to use a tack hammer to knock the key down, however, be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you have tried all of these methods but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to call an expert. A qualified mechanic or locksmith will be able to safely disassemble the ignition and extract 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 easily replace the batteries yourself and your key fob will be like new.
First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. The best place to start is by reading the owner's manual, or speaking with 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 need to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. If so this, make sure you make use of a soft tool, such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail to push open the fob without causing internal damage.
After you have opened the key fob then carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match up with each other. Otherwise, the battery won't be able charge correctly. Once the battery is in place close the key fob and then snap it back together.
Test the new key by pressing the button and pointing it towards the vehicle. It's now time to get in your car and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be a pro at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more tips on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're not quite ready for a key replacement, we provide low-cost key fob repair.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is for it to get bent in the lock or worse still, stuck inside. Luckily, this kind of key is usually repaired. However, if the key is too deep and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
The key might be too worn out to engage the lock wafers properly. This could also mean that you require a new ignition cylinder, or the key.
If the key can still be inserted in the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll need to flatten it with a hammer. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft so as not to damage the lock cylinder or the key. You could also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It could take several tries to get the key back into the proper alignment.
If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it is a sign that the teeth have become overly worn and are no longer engaging the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. If this is the case, a new key is required as soon as possible. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealership from which you purchased your car and soliciting a VIN cut key that is exactly same as your old one. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying to bend your existing key back into shape.