Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a myriad of possible reasons for why your key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require more technical knowledge or help from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't contain a chip by selecting the right key blank and using a machine to copy the contours of your current key. The process typically takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop functioning at the worst moment. For instance, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or even when you're returning back home after a long working day. The good news is that if the problem is due to your key fob battery, or a dead lock it is generally easy to solve and may save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
If your key fob isn't keeping a charge the first thing to do is replace the battery. This is a great solution particularly in the event that your key fob is smashed a lot. If you're still experiencing issues then a visit to your local AutoZone could be able to help.
If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, it could contain a transponder chip inside the head of your key. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when your key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" that either starts and accepts your car's engine or blocks it from starting.
click here to read may be able reset the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual. car key lock repair near me may need to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights and press a series buttons in a specific order. If you're unable to do this yourself, it's important to know that locksmiths and manufacturers are able to modify the keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships are able to perform this task for you, but may require proof of ownership documents and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a form that has two circular bases connected with a curved surface, at a fixed distance away from the center. This is called 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 can also be found in a variety of automobile engine components.
You might also have to replace the cylinder if your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive repair that is usually possible to do yourself. If you are handy with a toolbox you can purchase a new ignition lock at the local auto parts shop and replace it according to the instructions in the owner's manual. It's not always an easy task and it's easier to let someone else do it.
If your car keys aren't entering the ignition or turning on the engine, the problem might be with the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to test changing the battery in your key fob first. This may fix the issue. Your key fob is bound to get a lot used and tossed around, so it may need to be cleaned and reset.
This is usually handled by locksmiths or your vehicle dealer, based on the kind of car you have. If you have an older model, you should consider looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store will usually be capable of cutting the standard key and supply you with an additional. However the dealer might need your VIN number or proof of ownership in order to design the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys take a beating. They can get tangled in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in difficult-to-access places. It is essential to examine the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they're well-maintained and clean. If they aren't then the grooves will eventually get worn down, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key becomes stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to assist it. Try using a spare key to determine if the problem lies with the the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to allow it to properly align with the internal components.
A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misalignment of small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins to fall off incorrectly and prevent the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder can assist in re-aligning the tumblers so that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
Finally, some people may recommend tapping the end of the key using a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this can cause damage to 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've tried all 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 can safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a useful tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, like most things that run on batteries - it will eventually fail. 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 begin is by reading the owner's manual, or speaking with an expert locksmith for the type of battery that your vehicle utilizes. Then, you can purchase a compatible replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is also possible to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so this, make sure you use a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing internal damage.
After 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 up with each other. The battery won't be able to charge properly if you don't make this a priority. 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. It's now time to get in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be an expert at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more information on how you can fix your vehicle at home. If you're not prepared yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is for it to get bent inside the lock, or even worse, to become stuck inside. This type of key can usually be repaired. If the key is stuck too far and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, then the only option is to replace it.
Generally speaking, the issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is that it has become overly worn and is not working properly with the lock wafers. This could also mean you need a new ignition cylinder, or an ignition 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 with a Hammer. Make sure you employ a soft-faced hammer so as to not damage the key or lock cylinder. You could also make use of the flat end on needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back to align. It might take a few attempts to get the key back into its proper position.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it is a sign that the teeth have become overly worn and are not engaging the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. In this situation you'll require to replace your key as quickly as you can. You can accomplish this by taking the stub of your key back to the dealership where you purchased your car from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's exactly like your old key. This is much easier and cheaper than trying your current key to get back into shape.