What Experts Say You Should Know Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many possible reasons why your key won't turn. Some are easy fixes, while others require a bit more technical knowledge or help from a professional.

AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without a chip using a key blank that is a match to your existing key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. This process typically takes just minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, the car's key will stop functioning at the worst moment. For example, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you are heading back home after a long working day. The good news is that if the problem is caused by your key fob battery, or a dead lock it is usually very simple to 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 charging anymore. This can often fix the issue particularly if you've had it for a while and has been tossed around a lot. If you're still having issues, a quick visit to your local AutoZone might be able assist.

Transponder chips could be embedded inside the head of plastic on your key if driving a newer vehicle. These chips are designed to be more efficient anti-theft devices. They emit unique code each time your key is was inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" that either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle or blocks it from beginning.

Depending on your specific car depending on the model, you might be in a position to reset the chip by following the steps in the owner's manual. It is possible to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights and press a series of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships will assist you in this process, but they might require proof of ownership and the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometry shape. It's a form with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface that is an exact distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine components.

When a key breaks, you may need to replace the cylinder as well. This is a simple repair that you could do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto part store and follow the directions in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always a simple process and it's easier to let someone else do it.

If your car keys do not start the engine or turn on the ignition, it could be a problem with the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to change the battery in your key fob first. This could resolve the problem. Your key fob likely gets lots of use and is jostled around a lot, so sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your car.

This is usually done either by a car dealership or a locksmith, depending on the type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth visiting a local hardware store that has a specialization in automotive locks or keys. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and give you a spare, while the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to create an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time, our keys get beaten. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses, and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. This is why it's important to regularly inspect the grooves on your key to make sure they're clean and in good condition. If they aren't the grooves of the key will eventually wear away, making it difficult to remove and insert the key.


There are key fob repair service can remove your key from the ignition. Try using a spare to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, move the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is align properly with the internal components.

A key jamming in the ignition cylinder may be caused by misaligned small tumblers within the cylinder. This can cause the pins to fall off incorrectly, which prevents the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder could assist in re-aligning these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Some people might suggest tapping the edge of the key with an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this can end up damaging the key as well as the cylinder that controls ignition. Make use of a tack-hammer instead an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.

If you've tried all these methods but you're still unable to remove your car key, it may be time to consult an expert. A professional locksmith or mechanic will be able to securely disassemble your car ignition and take out your key.

Battery

The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, as with all things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually die. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be like new.

You'll first need to find the right battery. The best place to begin is by reading your owner's manual or talking to locksmiths about the kind of battery your vehicle uses. You can purchase a replacement battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may also need to remove your key fob to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail, or screwdriver to open the fob out without damaging the internals.

After you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are aligned. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge properly. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.

Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything functions just as it should you can hop into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be a pro at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more advice on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you are not ready yet, we offer low-cost keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The most undesirable thing that could occur with your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or even worse, stuck inside. This kind of key can usually be repaired. 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.

Generally, the problem with a key getting stuck in the ignition is the fact that it is excessively worn and is no longer engaging the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you need an ignition cylinder that is new, or the key.

If the key can still be inserted in the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned properly, you will need to flatten it out using a hammer. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or key. You could also use the flat end on needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few tries to get the key into the right position.

If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it could be that the teeth have become excessively worn and are not connecting the wafers in the lock correctly. In this instance you'll require an entirely new key as soon as possible. This can be accomplished by taking the key stub to the dealership where you bought your car, and soliciting the VIN cut key that is the exact same as the one you had previously. This is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend your existing key back to form.