Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car keys won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require more technical knowledge or help from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without chip using a key blank that is identical to your current key. They then utilize a machine to duplicate the contours. The process typically takes a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes a car key can stop working at the most inconvenient times - like when you're loading groceries into your trunk, on the way to the gym or home after a long day. The good news is that when the problem is due to a key fob battery or a dead lock, it's typically a simple solve and may save you the expense of a costly replacement.
The first thing you can try is replacing the battery in your key fob in case it's not keeping a charge. This is a good solution, especially in the event that your key fob has been jostled frequently. If you're still having issues, a quick trip to your local AutoZone can help.
Transponder chips can be found in the plastic head on your key if driving a more modern car. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device the chips emit a unique code each time your key is put into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer", which either allows you to start your car's engine, or rejects and prevents it from starting.
Depending on your specific car You may be in a position to reset the chip on your own by following the steps in your owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights and press a series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to modify your keys if you are unable to do it yourself. Some car dealerships are able to perform this task for you, but might require proof of ownership documents and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometry shape. It's a shape that has two circular bases joined by a curved surface that is a fixed distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine parts.
If a key fails it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder too. It's a relatively cheap repair, and is typically feasible to perform it yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder at the local auto parts store and follow the steps in your owner's manual to replace it. 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 won't start the engine or enter the ignition, it could be a problem with the battery or cylinder. It is recommended to try changing the battery on your key fob first. This could fix the problem. Your key fob likely gets lots of use and is jostled around a lot, which is why often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your car.
mobile key repair near me is usually performed by a locksmith or your car dealership, depending on the model of car you have. If you have an older model, you should consider trying a local hardware store that is specialized in keys for automotive locks. A hardware store will typically cut the standard car key and give you a spare, while the dealer will require your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to create a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys are prone to a beating. They can get lost in purses, pockets and drawers, and could even be bent in a hard-to-reach location. It is essential to examine the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they are clear and in good condition. If they aren't the grooves of the key will eventually wear away, making it difficult to insert and remove the key.
If your key is stuck in the ignition, there are a few alternatives you can take to assist it. Try using a spare to determine if the problem lies with the the ignition switch. Then, move your key 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 small tumblers inside the cylinder. This could cause the pins not to drop correctly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. You can re-align the tumblers with an oil for locks, or graphite.
Some people suggest that you tap the end of the ignition key with a small hammer. This could damage the ignition cylinder as well as the key. You can use a tack hammer instead of an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these suggestions but are still unable to get rid of your car key, it might be time to call a professional. A qualified mechanic or locksmith can safely disassemble the ignition and extract your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, just like all things that rely on batteries, it eventually dies. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself and your key fob is just as good as new.
You'll first need to find the right battery. The best place to begin is by reading your owner's manual or asking an expert locksmith for the type of battery your car utilizes. Then, purchase an equivalent replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is possible to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. If you do this, make sure you use a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to push open the fob, without causing internal damage.
Place the battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. The battery will not be able to charge properly if you don't do this. Once the battery is fully charged, close the key fob and snap it back to its original position.
Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything is working just as it should you can hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. Before you know it, life's interruptions will be no problem because you'll be a master in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more tips on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure to repair your key, we can help with affordable key fob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to happen to your car key is that it gets bent in the lock, or even worse, gets stuck inside. Luckily, nearby key repair shop of key is usually repaired. However in the event that the key is too deep and is unable to be removed using normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.
The key might be worn out and unable to engage the lock wafers correctly. It may be an indication that you should replace the ignition cylinder, or just get a new key.
If the key can be inserted in the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll need to flatten it out with an Hammer. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft to avoid damaging the key or lock cylinder. Alternately, you can utilize the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It might take a few attempts to get the key back in its proper position.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it means that the teeth have become excessively worn and are not connecting the wafers in the lock correctly. In this instance you'll need an entirely new key as soon as you can. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealership you purchased your car from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to the previous key. This is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend the key you have already got into shape.