Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many possible reasons for why your key won't turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys, without chip by using a blank key that is identical to your current key. They then use a machine duplicate the contours. The process typically takes a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key will stop functioning at the worst time. For instance, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or heading to the gym. Or even when you are heading back home after a long working day. The good news is that when the problem is due to a key fob battery or dead lock it is usually very simple to solve and may save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
The first thing you can try is to replace the battery in your key fob if it's not keeping a charge. This often fixes the problem particularly if you've been using it for a while and it's been tossed around frequently. If you're still struggling taking a trip to your local AutoZone will help.
Transponder chips can be found in the head of plastic on your key if driving an older model vehicle. The idea behind it is to be a more effective anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then read and interpreted by the "immobilizer" which either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle or denies it from beginning.
Based on the model of your vehicle You may be in a position to reset the chip by following the directions in the owner's manual. It may require opening and closing doors or turning off lights or electronics and pressing a series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to change the keys in case you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships also do this, but they may require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most basic 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases joined by a curved surface at an exact distance from the center. car key lock repair near me is referred to as the height of the cylindrical. Examples of real-world cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine components.
When a key breaks it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you could do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox you can purchase a brand new ignition lock at the local auto parts store and replace it according to the guidelines 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 are not getting into the ignition or turning on the engine, it could be related to the cylinder or battery. Change the battery in your key fob is one of the first things you need to try, and it could solve the issue. Your key fob will be used a lot and jostled, so it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed.
This is typically done by a car dealership or locksmiths, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model car it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. The hardware store will typically be capable of cutting an ordinary key and provide you with a spare. However, the dealer may require the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership in order to create a new replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys may become damaged. They can get lost in purses, pockets and drawers, and can even be bent in an impossible-to-access place. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves of your keys to ensure that they are clean and intact. If they're not 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 help it out. First try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, move your key into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key is stuck in the ignition cylinder, which could happen when the small tumblers within the cylinder misalign. This can cause the pins not to drop properly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key can easily come out of the ignition.
Some recommend tapping the end of the ignition key with an hammer that is small. This could damage the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.
If you have tried these suggestions but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it might be time to contact an expert. A qualified locksmith or mechanic will be able to safely disassemble the ignition of your car and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, like most things that rely on batteries, it eventually dies. You can 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 to read your owner's manual or talking to a locksmith about the type of battery your car uses. You can buy an alternative battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may also need to remove the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. It is essential to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob apart without damaging the internals.
Insert the new battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in line. 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 to its original position.
Test out your new key by pressing the button and then 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 in changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for more information on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're not quite ready for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you would like to happen to your car key is for it to become bent inside the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. This type of key is usually repairable. However, if the key is too far into and can no longer be removed with normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
The most common issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become excessively worn and is no longer working properly with the lock wafers. It may be an indication that you need to replace the ignition cylinder or simply purchase a new key.
If the key is still capable of being placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned in the right way, you will need a hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You can also make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It could take several tries to get the key in the proper alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder it could be that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't engaging the wafers inside the lock properly. In this instance, you will need to replace your key as quickly as you can. You can do this by taking the key stub back to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to your old key. This is a lot easier and cheaper than trying to bend your existing key back into shape.