Your Family Will Thank You For Having This Car Key Repair

Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons your car key may not turn. Some are simple fixes and others require more technical knowledge or help from a professional.

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

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the most inconvenient time. For example, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you're returning back home after a long working day. The good news is that when the problem is due to a key fob battery, or a dead lock, it's usually very simple to solve and may save you the expense of a costly replacement.

If your key fob isn't holding a charge The first thing to do is replace the battery. This usually solves the issue particularly if you've been using it for a while, and it's been jostled around a lot. If you're still experiencing issues it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone might be able assist.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle it may have a transponder chip in the head of your plastic 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 by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and then starts your engine, or rejects it and stops your vehicle from starting.

It is possible to reset the chip yourself if you follow the instructions in the owner's manual. You may need to open and close doors, switch on and off electronics or lights and press a series of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to change the keys in case you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships will also perform this, however they might require proof of ownership and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a basic 3D shape in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases joined by a curved area at a fixed distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Examples of real-world cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine parts.

If a key fails, you may need to replace the cylinder as well. It's a relatively cheap repair that is usually possible to do yourself. If you're skilled with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock from your local auto parts store and then replace it in accordance with the directions in the owner's manual. It's not always a simple process and it's usually better to let a professional handle it for you.

If your car keys won't start the engine or enter the ignition it could be an issue with the battery or cylinder. It is a good idea to try changing the battery on your key fob first. This may fix the problem.  key car repair  is likely to be used a lot and bumped around, which means it could require cleaning and reset.

This is typically done by an auto dealership or locksmiths, based on the kind of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth visiting a local hardware store that has a specialization in keys or locks for automobiles. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and provide an alternative, while the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to make a replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, our keys get beaten. They can get lost in purses, pockets and drawers, and could even be bent in a hard-to-reach area. That's why it's important to regularly check the grooves on your key to ensure that they are clean and intact. If they aren't then the grooves will eventually become worn, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

If your key becomes stuck in the ignition there are a couple of alternatives you can take to assist it. Try using a spare key to determine if the issue lies with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to help it align properly with the internal components.

A key jamming in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers in the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop properly, which prevents the key from being removed or inserted successfully. You can re-align the tumblers by using the lock lubricant or graphite.

Some people might suggest tapping the end of the key using a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this could actually damage the key and the ignition cylinder. It's better to employ a tack hammer to knock the key down, but be careful not to strike it too hard.

If you have tried all of these tips but are still unable remove your car keys, it could be time to consult a professional. A professional locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the car ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, as with all things that rely on batteries, it will eventually die. Luckily, you can replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as excellent as new.

First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a locksmith at your local store which kind of battery it is. Then, purchase a compatible replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may also need to remove your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so this, make sure you make use of a soft tool, such as a screwdriver, or even your fingernail to pry open the fob without causing internal damage.

After you have opened the key fob and inserted the new battery into the slot. 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 properly. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.

Test out your new key by pressing the button and pointing it towards the vehicle. If everything is working according to plan you can hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. You'll soon be an expert at replacing the car key battery. Good luck! Check out our blog for more tips on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not ready yet, we can provide low-cost keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you would want to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or worse still, stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too far and cannot be removed by normal twisting, then the only option is replacing it.

The key might be too worn out to engage the lock wafers properly. This could also mean that you require a new ignition cylinder, or a key.

If the key can be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, you'll need to flatten it out with a Hammer. Be sure to use a hammer that is soft so as not to damage the lock cylinder or key. You could also use the flat end on a pair needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back to align. It might require a few tries to get the key back into alignment.

If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, this means that the teeth are terribly worn out and cannot properly engage the wafers. If this is the case, a replacement key will be required as soon as possible. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealership you purchased your car from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to your previous key. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying to use the key you have already got back into shape.