Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons your car key won't turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical expertise or assistance from a professional.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that do not have chips by choosing an identical key blank and using machines to replicate the contours of your current key. This process usually takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, the car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient time. For example, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you are heading back home after a long working day. If the problem is caused by a deadlock or a key fob, it's generally easy to solve. This could save you from having to purchase a brand new vehicle.

If your key fob isn't holding a charge the first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This can often fix the issue, especially if you've had it for a while, and it's been tossed around a lot. If you're still having issues, a quick trip to your local AutoZone could help.

If you're driving a more modern vehicle it may have a transponder chip in the head of your key. The idea behind it is to be a better anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and then starts your engine, or rejects it and stops your vehicle from starting.

Based on the model of your vehicle depending on the model, you might be able to reset the chip on your own by following the steps in the owner's manual. It could include closing and opening doors as well as turning off and Broken Car Key Repair on lights or electronics, and pressing a number of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to change the keys in case you are unable to do it yourself. Some broken Car key repair dealerships will do this for you but may require proof of ownership papers and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a basic 3D geometric shape. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved area at a set distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Toilet rolls and cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of car engine parts.

You may also need to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive repair that is usually possible to do yourself. If you're skilled with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock from the local auto parts store and then replace it in accordance with the directions in your owner’s manual. It's not always an easy task and it's better to let someone else handle it.

If your car keys do not start the engine or enter the ignition it could be a problem with the battery or cylinder. Change the battery on your key fob is among the first things you should do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to be used a lot and jostled, so it could require cleaning and changed.

This is typically done by an auto dealership or locksmiths, based on the kind of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, you should consider looking for a local hardware shop that is specialized in automotive locks or keys repair near me. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and provide a spare, while the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to make the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys may become damaged. They may get lost in drawers, purses and pockets, and bent in hard-to-reach places. This is why it's important to regularly inspect the grooves on your key to make sure they are clean and intact. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear out and make it difficult to remove and insert the key.

If your key is stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to assist it. First, try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, move the key into and out of the ignition to ensure that it is align properly with the internal components.

A key jamming in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers inside the cylinder. This can cause the pins not to drop properly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder could assist in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.

Finally, some people may suggest tapping the end of the key using an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this can end up damaging the key as well as the cylinder of ignition. It's better to use a tackhammer to knock the key down, but be careful not to strike it too hard.

If you've tried all these methods but you're not able to get rid of your car key, it might be time to contact an expert. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, just like all things that rely on batteries, it will eventually fail. Thankfully, Broken Car Key Repair you can easily replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as excellent as new.

You'll need to first locate the correct battery. The best way to begin is by reading the owner's manual, or speaking with an expert locksmith for the type of battery that your vehicle uses. You can purchase a replacement battery at your local auto parts 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 force the fob open without causing internal damage.

Place the battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure the positive and the negative sides of the batteries are in line. The battery will not be able charge properly in the absence of this. Once the battery is in place close the key fob, then snap it back to its original position.

Test your new key by pressing the button and then pointing it towards the vehicle. If everything is working as it should, it's time to hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. You'll soon be an expert in replacing the car key battery. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more information on how to fix your vehicle at home. If you're not sure to repair your key, we can help with affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or worse, get stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can usually be fixed. However, if the key is too deep and can no longer be removed with normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.

Generally speaking, the issue with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is that it is excessively worn and is not engaging the lock wafers properly. This could mean that you need an ignition cylinder that is new, or an ignition key.

If the key is in a position to be inserted into the cylinder, but it's not aligned properly then you'll need a hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to prevent damaging the lock cylinder or key. You could also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into alignment. It may require several attempts to get the key back in the proper alignment.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, it indicates that the teeth are excessively worn and do not effectively engage the wafers. If this is the case, a replacement key is required immediately. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealer where you bought your car, and request the VIN cut key that is exactly identical to the old one. This is much easier and less expensive than trying to use your existing key to get back in shape.