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Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons why your car keys won't turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or expert assistance.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that do not have chip by choosing the right key blank and utilizing a machine to copy the contours of your current key. This service typically only takes a few minutes.

Ignition Socket

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

The first thing you can try is replacing the battery in your key fob in case it's not keeping a charge. This is a great solution particularly when your key fob has been jostled often. If you're still struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will assist.

Transponder chips could be embedded in the head of plastic on your key if you own an older model vehicle. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device the chips emit a unique number of codes when the key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and starts your engine or rejects it and stops your vehicle from beginning.

Depending on the specific model of your car depending on the model, you might be in a position to reset the chip yourself by following the directions in your owner's manual. You may need to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights, and press series buttons in a specific order. If you're not able to do this by yourself, you need to know that locksmiths and manufacturers are able to reprogram these keys at a cost. Some car dealerships can do this, but they may require proof of ownership and 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 surface, at an exact distance from the center. This is referred to as the height of a Cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine parts.

If a key fails, you may need to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and it's usually possible to do yourself. If you are skilled with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock from the local auto parts shop and replace it according to the instructions in the owner's manual. It's not always an easy process and it's more convenient to let someone else do it.

If your car keys aren't entering the ignition or turning on the engine, the issue could be due to the cylinder or battery. It is a good idea to test changing the battery in your key fob first. This could resolve the issue. Your key fob is likely to see frequent use and is tossed around a lot, and sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your vehicle.

This is usually handled by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, depending on the kind of car you have. If you have an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting the local hardware store that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store should be capable of cutting an ordinary key and provide you with an additional. However, the dealer may require the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership in order to design the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, our keys are prone to a beating. They may get lost in drawers, purses, and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. This is why it's important to check the grooves of your keys to ensure that they're in good shape and clean. If they aren't, the grooves of the key will eventually wear out and make it difficult to remove and insert the key.

If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are a couple of alternatives you can take to help it out. First, try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is related to the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to allow it to align properly with the internal components.

A key jamming inside the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers within the cylinder. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly, which prevents the key from being inserted or removed successfully. You can re-align the tumblers with an oil for locks, or graphite.

In addition, some may suggest tapping the edge of the key with an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this can cause damage to the key repairs and the ignition cylinder. Use a tack-hammer instead of a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.

If you've tried these suggestions but are still unable to remove your car key, it could be time to consult a professional. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, it will eventually end up dying just like other devices that are powered by batteries. You can easily replace the batteries yourself and your key fob is just as good as new.

First, you'll need to locate the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle or asking a locksmith at your local store which kind of battery they use. You can purchase an alternative battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may also have to take apart your key fob to locate the battery slot. It is important to use a soft tool, like a fingernail or screwdriver, to pry the fob open without creating internal damage.

The battery should be inserted carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line up. The battery will not be able charge properly if you don't do this. Once the battery is installed shut off the key fob and then snap it back together.

Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at the vehicle. If everything works as it should, it's time to hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. You'll soon be an expert in changing the battery in your car broken key repair. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more tips on how to fix your vehicle at home. If you are not ready yet, we offer affordable keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is for it to become bent in the lock, or even worse, to become stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be released by normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.

The most common issue with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become excessively worn and is no longer engaging the lock wafers properly. This could mean that you need an entirely new ignition cylinder or a key.

If the key can be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned correctly, then you will need to flatten it out using an Hammer. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft so as to not damage the lock cylinder or key. Alternately, you can use the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend the remote key repairs back into alignment. It may take several attempts to get the key into alignment.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, it indicates that the teeth are overly worn out and no longer properly engage the wafers. If this is the case, a new key will be needed as soon as possible. This can be accomplished by taking the key stub to the dealership where you bought your car, and asking for an VIN cut key that is exactly identical to the old one. This is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend the key you have already got to form.