Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car key may not turn. Some are simple fixes while others require more technical knowledge or help from a professional.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that do not have chip by choosing the right key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your existing key. The process typically takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes a car key can not work at the most unavoidable times - such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk on your way to the gym or home after a long day. The good news is that if the problem is due to your key fob battery or dead lock it is generally easy to solve and may save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
If your key fob isn't holding a charge the first thing to do is replace the battery. This is a good solution particularly in the event that your key fob has been jostled a lot. If you're still having issues then a visit to your local AutoZone could be able to help.
If you're driving a brand newer vehicle it may have a transponder chip in the head of your key. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device they emit a unique code when your key is put into the ignition. This signal is then read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins the engine or denies it and prevents your vehicle from getting started.
Depending on your specific car You may be capable of resetting the chip by following the steps in the owner's manual. It may involve closing and opening doors, turning on and off lights or electronic devices and pressing a series of buttons in a specific order. If you're unable to do this yourself, it's important to note that most locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram the keys for a fee. Some car dealerships also do this, but they might require proof of ownership and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometric shape. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved surface, at an exact distance from the center. This is known as the height of the Cylinder. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also found in many car engine components.
You might also have to replace the cylinder in case your key fails. It's a relatively cheap repair that is usually possible to do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto parts store and follow the steps in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always a simple process and it's easier to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys won't start the engine or go into the ignition it could be a problem with the cylinder or battery. It is a good idea to try changing the battery on your key fob first. This could fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to see a lot of use and is moved around a lot, and it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car.
This is usually handled by a locksmith or your car dealership, depending on the type of car you have. If you have an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys for automotive locks. A hardware store will usually be capable of cutting a standard key and provide you with an extra. However the dealer might require your VIN number or proof ownership in order to create an alternative replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys are prone to a beating. key repair near me may get lost in drawers, purses and pockets, or bent in hard-to-reach places. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves on your key to make sure they are clean and intact. If they aren't then the grooves will eventually wear down and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to aid in removing it. First, try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is related to the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to help it get aligned with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key has become stuck in the ignition cylinder, that can happen when the tiny tumblers inside the cylinder do not align. This could cause the pins to not drop properly and block the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder can assist in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key can easily come out of the ignition.
In addition, some may suggest tapping the end of the key using the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this can actually damage the key and the cylinder that controls ignition. It's better to employ a tack hammer to knock the key off, however, be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all of these tips and are still unable to get rid of your car key, it might be time to contact an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able safely disassemble the car ignition and take out your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a useful tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, as with all things that run on batteries - it eventually dies. Fortunately, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as great as new.
First, you'll need find the right battery. The best place to begin is by reading the owner's manual or asking locksmiths about the kind of battery your car utilizes. You can buy an alternative battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may also have to remove the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. If you do this, make sure you make use of a soft tool, like a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing any internal damage.
After you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure the positive and the negative sides of the batteries are in line. The battery won't be able to charge properly if you don't do this. Once the battery is installed, close 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 your vehicle. If everything is working as it should then it's time to get in and take a look at your newly restored car key. In a matter of minutes interruptions to your day won't be an issue because you'll be a pro in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Check out our blog for more tips on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not ready yet, we offer low-cost keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The final thing you want to occur with your car key is that it gets bent in the lock, or even worse, stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can usually be fixed. However, if the key is too far in and can no longer be removed using normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
Generally speaking, the issue with a key getting stuck in the ignition is that it has become excessively worn and is no longer engaging the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you require a new ignition cylinder, or an ignition key.
If the key is still capable of being put into the cylinder but it's not aligned correctly it will require a hammer to flatten it. Be sure to use a soft-faced hammer so as to not damage the lock cylinder or key. Alternately, you can make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It might require a few tries to bring the key back in the proper alignment.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it is a sign that the teeth have become excessively worn and are no longer engaging the wafers in the lock correctly. If this is the case, a new key will be needed immediately. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealership where you bought your car, and soliciting the VIN cut key that is the exact identical to the old one. This is much simpler and cheaper than trying your existing key to get back in shape.