Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many possible reasons for why your key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require some technical expertise or assistance from a professional.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't contain a chip by selecting an identical key blank and using machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This service usually takes only minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will not work at the most inconvenient times - for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk on your way to the gym or heading home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the problem is due to a key fob battery or dead lock it is typically a simple fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.

The first step is to replace the battery on your key fob in case it's not charging anymore. This is a good solution particularly in the event that your key fob has been jostled often. If you're still having issues making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will assist.

Transponder chips could be embedded in the plastic head on your key if you own a more modern vehicle. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code each time your key is was inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer", which either accepts and starts the engine of your vehicle or blocks it from beginning.

It is possible to reset the chip by yourself by following the instructions in the owner's manual. It could require opening and closing doors or turning off lights or electronics, and pressing a series of buttons in a certain sequence. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships can also perform this task for you, but may require proof of ownership documents and the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is one of the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved area at a set distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in car engine parts.

If a key is damaged it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder as well. It's a relatively cheap repair, and is typically feasible to perform it yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto part store and follow the steps in your owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy task and it's better to let someone else do it.

If your car keys are not entering the ignition or repair Key starting the engine, the issue might be with the cylinder or the battery. Change the battery in your key fob is among the first things you should try, and it might solve the issue. Your key fob is likely to see lots of use and is jostled around a lot, so it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your vehicle.

This is typically done by a car dealership or a locksmith, depending on the type of vehicle you have. If you own an older model, you should consider looking for a local hardware shop that is specialized in automotive locks or keys. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and provide an extra key, whereas the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to make a replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, our keys are prone to a beating. They can get lost in pockets, purses and drawers, and could even be bent in a difficult-to-access area. This is why it's important to regularly inspect the grooves of your key to ensure that they are clean and intact. 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 things you can try to free your key from the ignition. Try using a spare to determine if the issue lies with the the ignition switch. Then, move the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is get aligned with the internal components.

A key jamming in the ignition cylinder may be caused by misalignment of small tumblers inside the cylinder. This can result in the pins failing to drop correctly, which can prevent the key from being properly inserted. You can re-align the tumblers using the lock lubricant or graphite.

Finally, some people may recommend tapping the end of the key using a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this could cause damage to the key and the ignition cylinder. It is better to employ a tack hammer to knock the key off, but be cautious not to hit it too hard.

If you've tried all of these methods but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to call 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 an excellent tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, as with all things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually die. You can replace the batteries yourself and your key fob will be as good as new.

You'll first need to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a locksmith at your local store which type of battery it is. Then, you can purchase an equivalent replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may have to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so it, it is essential that you make use of a soft tool, such as a screwdriver, or even your fingernail to pry open the fob without causing internal damage.

Place the battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line up with each other. The battery won't be able charge properly if you don't make this a priority. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.

Test the new key by pressing the button and then pointing it towards the vehicle. It's now time to hop in your car and enjoy your newly restored key. In no time interruptions in your life 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 repair car key your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you'd wish to happen to your electronic Car key Repair Near me key is for it to become bent inside the lock, or worse still, stuck inside. This type of key can usually be repaired. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, then the only option is replacing it.

The key may be too worn out to connect the lock wafers in a proper. It could be an indication that you must replace the ignition cylinder, or just purchase a new one.

If the key is still able to be placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned correctly then you'll need a hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock's cylinder or key. You can also make use of 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 the proper alignment.

If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, it means that the teeth are excessively worn out and no longer effectively engage the wafers. If this is the case, a replacement key will be required as soon as possible. You can do this by taking the key stub back to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle from and requesting the VIN-cut keys that are exactly like your old key. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying to bend your existing key back into shape.