Find Out What Car Key Repair The Celebs Are Making Use Of
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your car key may not turn. Some are easy fixes, while others require some technical expertise or assistance from an expert.
AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't have a chip by selecting a matching key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your current key. This process usually takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading groceries into your trunk, while heading to the gym or heading home after a long day. The good news is that when the problem is due to your key fob battery or a dead lock, it's usually very simple to repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.
The first thing to try is to replace the battery in your key fob if it's no longer holding a charge anymore. This can often fix the issue, especially if you've had it for a while and has been tossed around a lot. If you still have problems then a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to assist.
Transponder chips can be found in the head of plastic on your key if you own an older model vehicle. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code each time the key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins the engine or denies it and stops your vehicle from getting started.
Based on the model of your vehicle You may be capable of resetting the chip yourself by following the directions in your owner's manual. It is possible to open and close doors, switch on and off electronics or lights, and press series buttons in a specific order. If you're not able to do this yourself, it's important to know that locksmiths and the manufacturer can reprogram the keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships can also do this for you but might require proof of ownership documents and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is one of the most basic 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, 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 is also found in a variety of automobile engine parts.
You might also have to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you could do yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder at the local auto parts store and follow the instructions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. However, it's not always a simple process and is often better to let a professional handle it for you.
If your car keys aren't entering the ignition or turning on the engine, the problem could be related to the cylinder or battery. It is an ideal idea to try changing the battery on your key fob first. This may fix the problem. Your key fob is bound to be frequently used and bumped around, which means it may need to be cleaned and reset.
This is usually done by locksmiths or your vehicle dealer, based on the model of car you own. If you own an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that has a specialization in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store should be able to cut an ordinary key and provide you with a spare. However, the dealer may require your VIN number or proof of ownership to be able to make a new replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys take a beating. They can be jumbled in purses, drawers and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. That's why it's important to regularly check the grooves of your keys to ensure they're in good shape and clean. If they're not, the grooves will eventually get worn down making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
There are a variety of things you can try to remove your key from the ignition. Try using a spare to determine if the issue lies with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, jiggle your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.
repair car key fob of the key in the ignition cylinder may be caused by misalignment of small tumblers within the cylinder. This can cause the pins to fall off incorrectly, which prevents the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder may assist in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.

In addition, some may suggest tapping the edge of the key using a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this can end up damaging the key as well as the cylinder of ignition. Use a tack-hammer instead of a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these methods but you're still unable to remove your car key, it might be time to call a professional. A qualified mechanic or locksmith will be able to take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a handy tool that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, it will eventually end up dying just like other devices powered by batteries. Luckily, you can replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as great as new.
You'll need to first locate the correct battery. Start by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a local locksmith which kind of battery it uses. You can buy an alternative battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may also have to disassemble your key fob to locate the battery slot. If you do, it is important that you make use of a soft tool, like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to push open the fob without causing any internal damage.
Once you have opened the key fob and inserted the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and the negative sides of the batteries are in sync. The battery won't be able charge properly if you don't make this a priority. 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 step into your car and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be a pro at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more advice on how to fix your vehicle at home. If you are not ready yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repair services.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd wish to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. This type of key is usually repairable. If the key is stuck for too long and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The key could be worn out and not connect the lock wafers in a proper. This could mean that you require a new ignition cylinder, or an ignition key.
If the key is still in a position to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned in the right way then you'll need a hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer to avoid damaging the lock's cylinder or key. You can also use the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It may take several attempts to get the key in 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 new key will be required as soon as possible. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealership where you purchased your car from and asking for a VIN-cut key that is identical to your previous key. This is much simpler and cheaper than trying your existing key to get back to normal.