Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are a myriad of possible reasons for why your key won't turn. Some fixes are simple, while others require more technical knowledge or expert assistance.

AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't contain chips by choosing a matching key blank and using machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This process usually takes 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, while heading to the gym or home after a long day. The good news is that when the problem is caused by your key fob battery or dead lock, it's generally easy to repair and could help you save the cost of an expensive replacement.

If your key fob isn't charging, the first thing you should do is replace the battery. This usually solves the issue particularly if you've been using it for a while, and it's been tossed around a lot. If you're still having issues, a quick visit to your local AutoZone could be able to assist.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, it could contain a transponder in the head of your key. Designed to be a better anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code when the key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine or rejects it and prevents your vehicle from starting.

You may be able reset the chip on your own by following the instructions in the owner's manual. It could require closing and opening doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronic devices and pressing a number of buttons in a particular order. If you're not able to do this on your own, it's important to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can modify the keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships also do this, but they might require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is one of the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases connected with a curved surface, at an undefined distance from the center. This is called the height of a cylindrical. Examples of real-world cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of car engine parts.

You might also have to replace the cylinder in case your remote key repairs is damaged. It's a relatively cheap repair that is usually possible to do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto parts store and follow the steps in the owner's manual to replace it. However, it's not always a simple process, and it's often easier to let a professional handle it for you.

If your car keys aren't being inserted into the ignition or starting the engine, it could be related to the cylinder or the battery. The battery change on your key fob is one of the first things you need to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob is bound to be used a lot and bumped around, which means it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed.

It is usually carried out by the car dealership or by a locksmith, depending on what type of vehicle you have. If you own an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting the local hardware store that specialises in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store should be able to cut a standard key and provide you with a spare. However, the dealer may require your VIN number or proof of ownership in order to design a new replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys can be damaged over time. They are tossed around in purses, pockets and drawers, and they can even be bent in an impossible-to-access place. It is essential to examine the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they're clean and intact. If they're not, the grooves will eventually get worn down and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are many options you can use to free your key from the ignition. Try using a spare to determine if the issue lies with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.

A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of small tumblers inside the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop correctly and prevent the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.

Some people suggest tapping the end of the ignition key with the hammer of a small size. This can damage the ignition cylinder as well as the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of a hammer, but don't 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 call an expert. A qualified mechanic or locksmith will be able to safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, like most things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually fail. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be just as good as new.

First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. The best place to begin is by reading the owner's manual, or speaking with a locksmith about the type of battery your car uses. Then, buy a compatible replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is possible to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is essential to use a soft tool, such as a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob open without damaging the internals.

Once you have opened the key fob then carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match to each other. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge correctly. Close the key fob after the battery has been installed.

Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. It's now time to get in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be a pro at changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more advice on how you can fix your vehicle at home. If you're not sure, we offer affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The final thing you want to occur with your car key is for it to become bent inside the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.

The most common issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is the fact that it is excessively worn and is not working properly with the lock wafers. It could be an indication that you need to replace the ignition cylinder, key fob repairs or simply purchase a new key.

If the key is able to be inserted into the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll have to flatten it out using an Hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer to prevent damaging the lock cylinder or Key Fob Repairs key. Alternately, you can utilize the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few tries to get the key into the proper alignment.

If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it is a sign that the teeth have become excessively worn and aren't engaging the wafers inside the lock correctly. If this is the case, a replacement key is required immediately. You can accomplish this by taking the key stub back to the dealer you bought your vehicle from and requesting a VIN-cut key that is identical to your previous key. This is much easier and less expensive than attempting to change the key you have already got back to normal.