Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many possible reasons why your key won't turn. Some fixes are simple, while others require more technical knowledge or assistance from a professional.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that do not have chips by choosing the right key blank and utilizing a machine to copy the contours of your current key. The process typically takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the most inconvenient time. For instance, if you are loading groceries into the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or even when you're returning home from a long workday. The good news is that when the problem is caused by your key fob battery, or a dead lock it is generally easy to fix and could save you the cost of an expensive replacement.

If your key fob is not charging The first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This can often fix the issue particularly if you've been using it for a while and has been jostled around a lot. If you're still having issues taking a trip to your local AutoZone could help.

Transponder chips can be found in the head of plastic on your key if you own an older model car. These chips are designed to be more efficient anti-theft devices. They emit unique codes when your key inserts into the ignition. This signal is then read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine or rejects it and stops your vehicle from beginning.

You may be able reset the chip by yourself by following the instructions in the owner's manual. It is possible to open and close doors, switch 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 also do this, but they might require proof of ownership and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is among the most basic 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape that has two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface at an exact distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Examples of real-world cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in many car engine components.

You may also need to replace the cylinder in case your key breaks. It's a relatively cheap repair that is usually possible to do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto parts store and follow the directions in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy process and it's usually better to let a professional handle it for you.

If your car keys are not being inserted into the ignition or starting the engine, the problem could be related to the cylinder or the battery. It is recommended to change the battery of your key fob first. This could fix the issue. Your key fob is bound to be used a lot and tossed around, so it might need to be cleaned and reset.

It is usually carried out by the car dealership or by a locksmith, depending on the kind of vehicle you own. If you own an older model car, it is worth visiting the local hardware store that specializes in automotive key repair (new post from www.g28carkeys.co.uk) keys or locks. A hardware store should be capable of cutting a standard key and provide you with a spare. However the dealer might require your VIN number or proof ownership in order to design the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys may become damaged over time. 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 key regularly to ensure they're clean and intact. If not the grooves on the key will eventually wear away, making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to aid in removing it. First try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is related to the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key is stuck in the ignition cylinder, which could happen when the small tumblers within the cylinder do not align. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly, which can prevent the key from being properly inserted. You can align the tumblers by using a lock lubricant, or graphite.

Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key with a small hammer. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder as well as the key. It is better to use a tackhammer to knock the key off, but be cautious not to hit it too hard.

If you've tried all of these tips but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it may be time to consult an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic can safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The car key fob is a handy tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, as with all things that are powered by batteries - it eventually dies. You can replace the batteries yourself and your key fob will be like new.

First, you'll need to locate the right battery. The best place to start is by reading the owner's manual, or speaking with locksmiths about the kind of battery that your vehicle utilizes. You can purchase a replacement battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may need to disassemble the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. If so, it is important that you employ a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing any internal damage.

Insert the new battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line up with each other. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge correctly. Close the key fob after the battery has been installed.

Test out your new key by pressing the button and then pointing it at your vehicle. If everything works as it should, it's time to hop into your freshly restored car key. In no time, life's interruptions won't be an issue because you'll be an expert in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for Automotive Key Repair more information on how you can fix your vehicle at home. If you're not sure to repair your key, we can help with affordable key fob replacements.

Bent Key

The last thing you would wish to happen to your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or worse, get stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repairable. However, if the key is too far into and cannot be removed with normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.

The key may be too worn out to engage the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean that you need an entirely new ignition cylinder or a key.

If the key can still be inserted into the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned properly, then you'll have to flatten it with an hammer. Make sure to use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or automotive key repair key. You can also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few attempts to bring the key back in the proper alignment.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are excessively worn out and cannot properly engage the wafers. In this instance you'll need to replace your key as quickly as you can. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealership you bought your vehicle from and requesting a VIN-cut key that is identical to your previous key. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying bend your current key back into shape.