Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a myriad of possible reasons for why your key won't turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical expertise or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without a chip using a key blank that is identical to your current 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 inconvenient times - such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk on your way to the gym or home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the problem is due to your key fob battery or dead lock, it's usually very simple to solve and may save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
If your key fob isn't holding a charge, the first thing you should do is replace the battery. This is a good solution, especially if your key fob has been tossed around often. If you're still having trouble taking a trip to your local AutoZone will aid.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, it might contain a transponder in the plastic head of your key. These chips are designed to be more efficient anti-theft devices. They emit a unique code when your key is was inserted into the ignition. This signal is then detected by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and starts your engine, or rejects it and stops your car from starting.
Depending on your specific car You may be capable of resetting the chip by following the directions in the owner's manual. You may need to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights and press a series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships can also do this for you but might require proof of ownership documents and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D shape in geometry. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved surface, at a fixed distance away from the center. This is called the height of a cylindrical. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of automobile engine components.
It is also possible to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can typically do yourself. If you are handy 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 is often better to let a professional do it for you.
If your car keys are not getting into the ignition or starting the engine, the problem could be related to the cylinder or battery. Change the battery inside your key fob is one of the first things to try, and it could fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to see frequent use and is jostled around a lot, which is why often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car.
This is usually handled by locksmiths or your car dealership, based on the type of car you have. If you have an older model, you should consider visiting a local hardware store that is specialized in automotive locks or keys. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and give you an alternative, while the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or evidence of ownership in order to make a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys are prone to a beating. They get jumbled around in purses, pockets and drawers, and they could even be bent in an impossible-to-access location. This is why it's important to check the grooves of your keys to ensure they're in good shape and clean. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear out making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
There are many ways you can get your key off the ignition. First, try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is related to the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.
A key jamming inside the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misaligned small tumblers inside the cylinder. This can cause the pins to fall off incorrectly and block the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder could help to re-align these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.
Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key using the hammer of a small size. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder as well as the key. 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 still unable to remove your car key, it might be time to consult an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to safely remove the ignition and retrieve your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a useful tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, it will eventually go out of service, just like everything else powered by batteries. You can replace the batteries yourself and your key fob will be like new.
You'll first need to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle or asking a locksmith in your area what type of battery it uses. You can purchase batteries at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may need to disassemble the fob that you have 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 creating internal damage.
Once 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 line up with each other. The battery will not be able to charge properly if you don't do this. Once the battery is installed shut off the key fob and then snap it back to its original position.
Test your new key by pressing the button and then pointing it at the vehicle. It's time to get in your car and enjoy the newly restored key. In no time, life's interruptions won't be an issue because you'll be an expert in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more tips on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd wish to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or even worse, to become stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key is usually fixed. If the key is stuck for too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The key may be worn out and not engage the lock wafers properly. It may also be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder or simply purchase a new key.
If the key is still in a position to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned correctly it will require an hammer to flatten the key. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer to prevent damaging the lock's cylinder or key. Alternatively, you could utilize the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few attempts to get the key back into alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, it indicates that the teeth are terribly worn out and cannot engage the wafers correctly. If this is the case, a new key will be needed as soon as is possible. car key fob repair can accomplish this by taking the stub of your key back to the dealer you bought your car from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to your old key. This is much easier and less expensive than trying to bend the key you have already got to form.