Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are a variety of reasons for why your key won't turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or professional help.

AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that don't contain chips by choosing an identical key blank and using a machine to copy the contours of your existing key. This service usually takes only minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will be inoperable at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk on your way to the gym, or when you're heading home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the issue is caused by your key fob battery or dead lock, it's generally easy to solve and may save you the cost of an expensive replacement.

The first step is replacing the battery in your key fob in case it's not keeping a charge. This usually solves the issue, especially if you've had it for a while and has been tossed around a lot. If you're still having issues then a visit to your local AutoZone might be able help.

If you're driving a newer vehicle it may have a transponder chip in the head of your key. These chips are designed to be more efficient anti-theft devices. They emit unique code each time your key is inserts 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.

You might be able to reset the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, switch on and off electronic devices or lights, and press series of buttons in a certain order. If you're not able to do this on your own, it's important to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram the keys for a fee. Some car key repair company dealerships can do this, but they may require proof of ownership and an amount of money.

Cylinder

The cylinder is one of the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a form with two circular bases joined by a curved area at a set distance from the center, referred to as 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 used in car engine components.

If a key is damaged it is possible to replace the cylinder too. This is a relatively inexpensive repair that is usually feasible to perform it yourself. If you are adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock at the local auto parts shop and replace it according to the guidelines in the owner's manual. But, it's not always an easy task and it's usually better to let a professional do it for you.

If your car keys don't start the engine or turn on the ignition it could be due to an issue with the battery or cylinder. The battery change in your key fob is one of the first things you need to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to see a lot of use and is jostled around a lot, and sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your vehicle.

This is usually performed by a locksmith or your car dealer, based on the kind of car key repair shop near me you own. If you have an older model, you should consider looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in automotive locks or keys. A hardware store will typically cut a standard car key and give you an extra key, whereas the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to create an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys can become damaged. They can get tangled in drawers, purses, and pockets, or bent in difficult-to-access places. That's why it is so important to regularly inspect the grooves of your keys to make sure they're in good shape and clean. If they're not, 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 alternatives you can take to assist it. Try using a spare key repair shop to determine if the issue lies with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, jiggle your key into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.

A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder may be caused by misaligned small tumblers in the cylinder. This could result in the pins failing to drop correctly, preventing the key from being successfully inserted. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder may aid in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.

Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key with a small hammer. This could cause damage to the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. Make use of a tack-hammer instead a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.

If you've tried all these suggestions but are not able to get rid of your car key, it may be time to consult an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to disassemble the ignition and extract your key.

Battery

The car keys repair key fob is a useful tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your car. However, it is likely to die like all things powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as excellent as new.

First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle or asking a locksmith in your area which kind of battery they use. Then, purchase an equivalent replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may also have to take apart the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. If so, it is important that you use a soft tool such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob without causing any internal damage.

Insert the new battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and the negative sides of the batteries are in line. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge properly. Once the battery is installed close the key fob and then snap it back to its original position.

Test the new key by pressing the button and pointing it towards the vehicle. Now it's time to get in your car key fob repairs near me and enjoy the newly restored key. In a matter of minutes interruptions to your day will not be a problem since you'll be a master in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for more information on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're not prepared yet, we offer affordable keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The most undesirable thing that could happen to your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. This type of key is usually repaired. However in the event that the key is too far in and can no longer be removed with normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.

The most common issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is that it has become excessively worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you need a new ignition cylinder, or the key.

If the key can still be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll have to flatten it out with a Hammer. Be sure to use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the key or lock cylinder. Alternatively, you could make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take several attempts to get the key back into the right position.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder it could be that the teeth are excessively worn and are not connecting the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. In this case you'll require a new key as soon as possible. This can be done by taking the Broken key Repair stub to the dealer where you bought your car, and soliciting an VIN cut key that is exactly the same as your old one. This is a lot easier and cheaper than trying to bend your existing key back to form.