Write About Everything

Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons your car key won’t turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical expertise or expert assistance.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don’t contain a chip by selecting an identical key blank and using machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This process usually takes a few minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will not work 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 due to a key fob battery, or a dead lock, it’s generally easy to repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.

The first step is to replace the battery in your key fob in case it’s not charging anymore. This is a great solution particularly in the event that 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.

If you’re driving a newer vehicle, it might contain a transponder in the plastic head of your key. It is designed to be a better anti-theft device the chips emit a unique number of codes when the key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the “immobilizer” which either allows you to start your car’s engine or denies it from beginning.

Depending on your specific car, you may be in a position to reset the chip by following the steps in the owner’s manual. You may need to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights, and press series of buttons in a particular order. If you’re unable to do this by yourself, you need to know that locksmiths and manufacturers are able to modify the keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships will also perform this, however they may require proof of ownership and the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a fundamental 3D geometry shape. It’s a shape with two circular bases connected by a curved surface that is an exact distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of automobile engine components.

If a key fails it is possible to replace the cylinder, too. It’s a fairly inexpensive repair, and is typically feasible to perform it yourself. If you’re proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder at the local auto parts store and follow the instructions in the owner’s manual to replace it. It’s not always a simple process, and it’s often easier to let a professional do it for you.

If your car keys do not start the engine or enter the ignition it could be due to a problem with the battery or cylinder. Change the battery on your key fob is one of the first things you need to try, and it might solve the issue. Your key repair fob is likely to be used a lot and bumped around, which means it could require cleaning and changed.

It is usually carried out by a car dealership or a locksmith, based on what type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it’s worth looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store will typically cut the standard car key and provide an extra key, whereas the dealer will need your vehicle’s VIN number or evidence of ownership in order to make the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time keys take a beating. They may get lost in purses, drawers and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. This is why it’s important to check the grooves of your keys to ensure that they’re clean and in good condition. If they aren’t then the grooves will eventually become worn, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are a couple of options to assist it. First, try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, move the key in and out of the ignition to help it properly align with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key is jammed in the ignition cylinder that can happen when the tiny tumblers inside of the cylinder do not align. This can cause the pins to not drop properly, which prevents the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder can help to re-align these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Some people suggest that you tap the tip of the ignition key using a small hammer. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder and the key. Make use of a tack-hammer instead the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.

If you’ve tried all of these methods but are still unable remove your car keys, it could be time to consult a professional. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to securely disassemble your car ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, just like all things that rely on batteries, it will eventually fail. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be as good as new.

First, you’ll need locate the correct battery. The best way to begin is by reading the owner’s manual, or speaking with locksmiths about the kind of battery your car keys repairs utilizes. You can purchase batteries at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may have to take apart your key fob to find the battery slot. It is important to use a soft tool, like a fingernail or screwdriver, to pry the fob open without damaging the internals.

Once you have opened the key fob and inserted the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. Otherwise the battery won’t be able to charge correctly. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.

Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it towards the vehicle. It’s now time to hop in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. You’ll soon be a pro at replacing the car key battery. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more advice on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you are not ready yet, we can provide low-cost keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The final thing you want to happen to your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or worse, it gets stuck inside. This type of key can usually be repaired. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be released by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.

The most common issue with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become excessively worn and isn’t working properly with the lock wafers. It may be a sign that you need to replace the ignition cylinder, or just get a new key.

If the key can still be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn’t aligned properly, you’ll need to flatten it out using a Hammer. Be sure to use a soft-faced hammer so as to not damage the lock cylinder or key. You can also utilize the flat end of needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back to align. It might take a few attempts to bring the key back into its proper position.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are terribly worn out and no longer effectively engage the wafers. If this is the case, a new key will be required immediately. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealer you bought your car from and asking for an VIN-cut key that’s exactly like your previous key. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying to bend the key you have already got to form.