Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are a variety of reasons why 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 don't have a chip by selecting an identical key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This service usually takes only minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes a car key can stop working at the most unavoidable times - for instance, when you're putting 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 a dead lock, it's usually very simple to fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.

The first thing to try is to replace the battery on your key fob if it's not keeping a charge. This is a good solution, especially if your key fob has been tossed around a lot. If you're still experiencing issues, a quick visit to your local AutoZone could be able to assist.

Transponder chips can be found in the head of plastic on your key if driving a more modern car. The idea behind it is to be a more efficient anti-theft device they emit a unique code when your key is put into the ignition. The signal is then scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine, or rejects it and prevents your car from starting.

It is possible to reset the chip on your own by following the instructions in the owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights and press a series buttons in a specific order. If you're unable to do this by yourself, you need to know that locksmiths and the manufacturer can reprogram the keys at a cost. Some car dealerships also perform this, however they might require proof of ownership and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is one of the most basic 3D geometric shapes. It's a form with two circular bases joined by a curved surface at a set distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also used in car engine parts.

You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key breaks. It's a relatively cheap repair that is usually feasible to perform it yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto parts store and follow the instructions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. But, it's not always a simple process, and it's often easier to let a professional do it for you.

If your car keys aren't entering the ignition or turning on the engine, it might be with the cylinder or battery. Changing the battery inside your key fob is one of the first things to try, and it could fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to see a lot of use and is tossed around a lot, and sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your car.

This is typically done by an auto dealership or a locksmith, depending on the type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model car It is recommended to visit an area hardware store that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and supply a spare, key repair service while the dealer will need the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to create the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, our keys get beaten. They can get tangled in purses, drawers and pockets, or bent in hard-to-reach places. It is important to check the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure that they are well-maintained and clean. If they're not the grooves will eventually become worn and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are a variety of things you can try to free your key from the ignition. Try using a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is properly align with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key is jammed in the ignition cylinder which could happen when the small tumblers inside the cylinder misalign. This can cause the pins to not drop properly, which prevents the key from being inserted or removed successfully. You can re-align the tumblers by using a lock lubricant, or graphite.

Some people suggest tapping the end of the ignition key using an hammer that is small. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder as well as the key. It is safer to use a tackhammer to knock the key off, however, be careful not to strike it too hard.

If you've tried all of these suggestions but are still unable to get rid of your car key, it may be time to call an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to take apart the ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, just like all things that are powered by batteries - it eventually dies. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be just as good as new.

You'll need to first locate the correct battery. The best place to begin is by reading your owner's manual or asking a locksmith about the type of battery your car utilizes. You can purchase batteries at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may also have to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so, it is important that you employ a soft tool such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob, without causing internal damage.

Insert the new battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure the positive and the negative sides of the batteries are in sync. The battery will not be able to charge properly if you don't do this. Close the key fob once the battery is installed.

Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at the vehicle. Now it's time to get in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be a pro at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Check out our blog for more tips on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure to repair your key, we can help with low-cost key repair service; relevant web site, fob repair.

Bent Key

The last thing you want to happen with your car key is that it gets bent in the lock or worse, it gets stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can be fixed. If the key is stuck too far and cannot be released by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.

The key could be worn out and not connect the lock wafers in a proper. It could be a sign that you need to replace the ignition cylinder, or just purchase a new one.

If the key is able to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned correctly then you'll need an hammer to flatten the key. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or the key. Alternately, you can utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It may take a few tries to get the key in alignment.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, it means that the teeth are overly worn out and cannot effectively engage the wafers. If this is the case, a replacement key will be required immediately. This can be accomplished by taking the stub of your key to the dealership from which you bought your car and soliciting an VIN cut key that is exactly same as your old one. This is much simpler and cheaper than trying your current key to get back into shape.