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Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many possible reasons for why your key won’t turn. Some fixes are simple, while others require more technical expertise or professional help.

AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys, without chip using a key blank that matches your existing key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. This process usually takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car’s key will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For example, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Even when you’re heading back home after a long working day. The good news is that if the issue is due to a key fob battery or a dead lock it is typically a simple repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.

The first step is replacing the battery in your key fob if it’s no longer holding a charge anymore. 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 trouble, a quick trip to your local AutoZone can assist.

If you’re driving a more modern vehicle, it could contain a transponder chip inside the plastic head of your key. Designed to be a better anti-theft device the chips emit a unique code when your key is put into the ignition. The signal is then read and auto key fob repair interpreted by the “immobilizer” which either accepts and starts your car’s engine or denies it from beginning.

It is possible to reset the chip on your own by following the directions in the owner’s manual. You may need to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights, and press series buttons in a specific order. If you’re not able to do this yourself, it’s important to note that most locksmiths and the manufacturer can modify the keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships can perform this, however they may require proof of ownership and the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is one of the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It’s a form with two circular bases joined by a curved surface at a fixed distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Toilet rolls and cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine parts.

When a key breaks it’s possible that you need to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can typically do yourself. If you’re handy with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto parts store and follow the steps in your owner’s manual to replace it. It’s not always an easy task and it’s easier to let someone else handle it.

If your car keys don’t turn on the engine or go into the ignition, it could be a problem with the battery or cylinder. Change the battery in your key fob is one of the first things to try, and it might fix the problem. The key fob you have is likely to get a lot of use and is jostled around a lot, and sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed to the car.

It is usually carried out by an auto dealership or a locksmith, depending on what type of vehicle you have. If you own an older model, you should consider looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys for automotive locks. A hardware store can usually cut a standard car key and give you a spare, while the dealer will require the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to make the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys can be damaged. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in places that are difficult to reach. That’s why it’s important to check the grooves on your key to ensure they’re in good shape and clean. If they aren’t the grooves of the key will eventually wear away making it difficult to remove and insert the key.

There are a variety of things you can try to get your key off the ignition. First try using a spare key to see if the problem is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, move your key into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key has become stuck in the ignition cylinder which can occur when small tumblers inside the cylinder do not align. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly and block the key from being inserted or removed successfully. You can re-align the tumblers using the lock lubricant or graphite.

Some people might suggest tapping the edge of the key using the hammer when it’s in the ignition, but this could end up damaging the key as well as the cylinder that controls ignition. It is safer to use a tackhammer to knock the key, however, be careful not to strike it too hard.

If you have tried all of these methods but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it may be time to call a professional. A professional locksmith or mechanic can securely disassemble your car ignition and take out your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. However, it will eventually end up dying just like other devices powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as good as new.

You’ll first need to find the correct battery. Begin by reading the owner’s guide of your vehicle or asking a locksmith in your area what type of battery they use. You can purchase a replacement battery at your local auto key Fob repair parts store or hardware store. You may also have to disassemble your key fob to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to employ a soft tool, like a fingernail or screwdriver, to pry the fob out without causing 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 batteries are aligned. The battery will not be able to charge properly in the absence of this. Close the key fob after the battery has been installed.

Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. It’s now time to hop in your car and enjoy your newly restored key. You’ll soon be a pro at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Follow our blog for more advice on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you’re not ready yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you would wish to happen to your car key remote repair key is for it to get bent in the lock, or worse still, stuck inside. This type of key is usually repairable. If the key is stuck too long and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, then the only option is to replace it.

Generally, the problem with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become overly worn and auto key fob repair is not engaging the lock wafers correctly. It may be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder or just purchase a new one.

If the key is capable of being inserted into the cylinder, but it’s not aligned correctly, you will need a hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer to ensure that you don’t damage the lock cylinder or the key. Alternatively, you could utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It may take several attempts to get the key into the proper alignment.

If the key isn’t able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it could be that the teeth have become overly worn and are no longer engaging the wafers in the lock properly. If this is the case, a replacement key will be needed as soon as possible. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealership you bought your vehicle from and requesting an VIN-cut key that’s exactly like your previous key. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying bend the key you have already got to form.