Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are a myriad of possible reasons why your key won't turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical expertise or assistance from a professional.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't contain a chip by selecting the right key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your current key. This process typically takes just minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes a car key can stop working at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading groceries into your trunk while heading to the gym or home after an exhausting day. If the problem is caused by an unlocked deadlock or your key fob, it's typically easy to solve. This could save you from having to purchase a brand new vehicle.

If your key fob isn't charging The first thing to do is replace the battery. This is a great solution particularly when your key fob has been jostled frequently. If you're still experiencing issues it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to assist.

Transponder chips could be embedded in the plastic head on your key if you drive a more modern vehicle. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device they emit a unique code when the key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" that either allows you to start your car's engine or blocks it from beginning.

Depending on the specific model of your car, you may be capable of resetting the chip on your own by following the instructions in the owner's manual. It is possible to open and close doors, switch on and off electronics or lights, and press series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships will also perform this, however they might require proof of ownership as well as an amount of money.

Cylinder

The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by a curved area at a fixed 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 cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also found in many car engine parts.

When a key breaks it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder as well. This is an inexpensive repair that you can typically do yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto parts store and follow the directions in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always a simple process and it's usually better to let a professional do it for you.

If your car keys don't start the engine or turn on the ignition it could be due to an issue with the cylinder or battery. It is an ideal idea to test changing the battery in your key fob first. This could fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to see a lot of use and is tossed around a lot, and it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car.

It is usually carried out by a car dealership or locksmiths, based on what type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, you should consider looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in automotive locks or keys. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and give you an extra key fob repair - Recommended Looking at -, whereas the dealer will require the VIN number of your car or evidence of ownership in order to make a replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys may be damaged over time. They may get lost in purses, drawers and pockets, and even bent in places that are difficult to reach. That's why it is so important to check the grooves on your key to ensure they're clean and in good condition. If not the grooves on the key will eventually wear away and make it difficult to remove and insert the key.

If your key is stuck in the ignition, there are a few options to aid in removing it. Try using a spare to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.

A key jamming in the ignition cylinder may be caused by misalignment of small tumblers in the cylinder. This can cause the pins to fall off incorrectly and block the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.

Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key with the hammer of a small size. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder and the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.

If you've tried all these methods but you're not able to get rid of your car key, it could be time to call a professional. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to securely disassemble your car key repairs near me ignition and then remove the key.

Battery

The car keys repair key fob makes it simple to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, as with all things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually fail. Luckily, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as great as new.

First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. The best place to begin is by reading the owner's manual or talking to an expert locksmith for the type of battery your car utilizes. Then, buy the appropriate replacement from a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is possible to disassemble the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. It is essential to employ 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 and inserted the new battery into the slot. Make sure the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge correctly. Once the battery is in place close the key fob, then snap it back together.

Test out your new key by pressing the button and pointing it towards the vehicle. If everything works just as it should you can hop in and take a look at your newly restored car key. In no time interruptions in your life won't be an issue because you'll be a pro in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Check out our blog for more advice on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure, we offer affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. This type of key is usually repaired. However in the event that the key repair shop near me is too far into and can no longer be removed with normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.

The key could be worn out and unable to engage the lock wafers correctly. It may also be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder or just purchase a new one.

If the key can still be inserted into the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll have to flatten it out with an Hammer. Make sure to use a soft-faced hammer so as not to damage the lock cylinder or the key. You could also utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It could require several attempts to bring the key back into the proper alignment.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder it could be that the teeth have become overly worn and aren't engaging the wafers inside the lock properly. If this is the case, a new key will be needed immediately. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealership where you bought your vehicle from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to the old key. This is much easier and cheaper than trying to bend your existing key back into shape.