Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

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

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't have a chip by selecting a matching key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your current key. This service usually takes only minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's key will not work at the most unavoidable times - like when you're loading groceries into your trunk, on your way to the gym or 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 typically a simple fix and ivimall.com could save you the cost of an expensive replacement.

The first thing to try is to replace the battery on your key fob if it's no longer charging anymore. This is a great solution particularly in the event that your key fob is smashed a lot. If you're still struggling taking a trip to your local AutoZone can assist.

Transponder chips may be embedded in the head of plastic on your key if you drive an older model car. It is designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code each time the key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer", which either allows you to start the engine of your vehicle or blocks it from beginning.

You might be able 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. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to modify your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships can perform this, however they might require proof of ownership and the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved surface that is a set distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Examples of real-world cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine parts.

If a key fails it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder, too. It's a fairly inexpensive repair that is usually possible to do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox you can buy a new ignition lock from your local auto parts store and replace it according to the guidelines in your owner’s manual. However, it's not always an easy process and is often better to have a professional take care of it for you.

If your car keys aren't getting into the ignition or starting the engine, it might be with the cylinder or battery. Changing the battery on your key fob is one of the first things to try, and it might fix the problem. Your key fob is bound to be frequently used and tossed around, so it might require cleaning and changed.

This is usually handled by locksmiths or your car dealership, based on the model of car you have. If you have an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting the local hardware store that specializes in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store will typically cut a standard car key and supply an extra key, whereas the dealer will require the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to make an alternative.

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 hard-to-reach area. It is crucial to check the grooves on your key regularly to ensure they are well-maintained and clean. If they aren't then the grooves will eventually get worn down, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are a variety of ways you can remove your key from the ignition. Try using a spare to determine if the problem lies with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.

A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers inside the cylinder. This could cause the pins to fall off incorrectly and block the key from being removed or inserted successfully. You can adjust the tumblers using an oil for locks, or graphite.

Some people suggest that you tap the tip of the ignition key using the hammer of a small size. This could cause damage to the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. It's better to employ a tack hammer to knock the key down, but be careful not to hit it too hard.

If you have tried all of these tips but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it might be time to consult a professional. A qualified mechanic or locksmith will be able to disassemble the ignition and extract your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. However, it is likely to go out of service, just like everything else that are powered by batteries. Luckily, you can replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as excellent as new.

You'll first need to find the right battery. The best way to begin is by reading your owner's manual or asking locksmiths about the kind of battery your car uses. Then, 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. It is important to use a soft tool, such as a fingernail, or screwdriver, to pry the fob open without damaging the internals.

Once you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match up. The battery won't be able charge properly if you don't do this. Close the key fob once the battery has been installed.

Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything is working according to plan you can hop in and take a look at your newly restored car key. Before you know it, life's interruptions will not be a problem since you'll be a master in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Follow our blog for more advice on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready for a key replacement, we provide low-cost key fob repair.

Bent Key

The last thing you'd like to happen to your car key is for it to get bent in the lock or even worse, to become stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can usually be repaired. However when the key is too deep and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.

The most common issue with a key getting stuck in the ignition is that it has become excessively worn and is no longer engaging the lock wafers properly. This could also mean that you need a new ignition cylinder, or the key.

If the key can be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, you'll have to flatten it out using an Hammer. Be sure to use a hammer that is soft to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You could also use the flat end on a pair needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back to align. It may take several attempts to get the key in the proper alignment.

If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it means that the teeth have become excessively worn and aren't connecting the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. If this is the case, a replacement key will be needed as soon as possible. This can be accomplished by taking the key stub to the dealer where you purchased your car and soliciting the VIN cut key that is exactly same as your old one. This is much simpler and less expensive than attempting to change the key car repair you have already got back in shape.