Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons why your car key may not turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or professional help.

AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without a chip by using a blank key that matches your existing key. They then utilize a machine to duplicate the contours. The process typically takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will be inoperable at the most unavoidable times - such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk, on the way to the gym or heading home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the problem is caused by your key fob battery or a dead lock, it's generally easy to repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.

The first thing to try is to replace the battery in your key fob if it's not holding a charge anymore. This often fixes the problem particularly if you've had it for a while, and it's been tossed around a lot. If you're still having issues making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will help.

If you're driving a more modern vehicle, it might contain a transponder in the head of your plastic key. It is designed to be a more effective anti-theft device the chips emit a unique number of codes when your key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine, or rejects it and prevents your vehicle from getting started.

Depending on your specific car depending on the model, you might be able to reset the chip by following the steps in your owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights, and press series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships are able to do this for you but might require proof of ownership documents and the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is one of the most basic 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape with two circular bases connected by a curved area at an exact distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls as well as 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.

It is also possible to replace the cylinder in case your key breaks. It's a fairly inexpensive repair car keys near me, and it's usually possible to do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder from the local auto parts store and follow the steps in your owner's manual for how to replace it. It's not always an easy process and it's more convenient to let someone else do it.

If your car keys do not turn on the engine or go into the ignition it could be due to an issue with the cylinder or battery. Change the battery on your key fob is one of the first things to try, and it could fix the problem. The key fob you have is likely to get frequent use and is moved around a lot, which is why often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your car.

This is typically done by the car keys repairs dealership or by a locksmith, based on the kind of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, you should consider looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys for automotive locks. The hardware store will typically be able to cut the standard key and supply you with an additional. However, the dealer may require your VIN number or proof ownership to be able to make an alternative replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys may become damaged. They may get lost in drawers, purses, and pockets, and bent in difficult-to-access places. That's why it's important to check the grooves of your keys to make sure they are clean and intact. If they aren't, the grooves will eventually become worn, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are several options you can use to remove your key from the ignition. First try using a spare key to see whether the issue is related to the key or the ignition switch. Then, move the key into and out of the ignition to ensure that it is get aligned with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key has become stuck in the ignition cylinder which can occur when small tumblers inside of the cylinder are not aligned. This could cause the pins to not drop properly, preventing the key from being inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder can aid in re-aligning these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Some people might 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 of ignition. It is safer to use a tack hammer to knock the key, however, be careful not to hit it too hard.

If you've tried these suggestions but are not able to get rid of your car key, it might be time to call a professional. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to safely remove the ignition and retrieve your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it simple to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, like most things that rely on batteries, it will eventually fail. Luckily, you can replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as good as new.

First, you'll need to locate the right battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle or asking a local locksmith which kind of battery they use. Then, you can purchase the appropriate replacement from a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may also need to remove the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. If you do it, it is essential that you use a soft tool such as a screwdriver, or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing any internal damage.

After you have opened the key fob and inserted the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match up. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge properly. Close the key fob once the battery is installed.

Test the new key by pressing the button and pointing it at the vehicle. If everything is working just as it should then it's time to get into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert in replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Check out our blog for more information on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready, key we offer affordable key fob replacements.

Bent Key

The final thing you want to happen with your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock or even worse, stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repairable. However in the event that the key is too far into and can no longer be removed with normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.

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

If the key is still able to be inserted into the cylinder, but it's not aligned properly it will require an hammer to flatten it. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft to avoid damaging the key or lock cylinder. You can also utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take several attempts to get the key back into alignment.

If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are overly worn and do not effectively engage the wafers. If this is the case, a replacement key will be needed as soon as possible. This can be done by taking the stub of your key to the dealership where you bought your car, and soliciting an VIN cut key that is the exact identical to the old one. This is much easier and cheaper than trying to bend the key you have already got to form.