Your Family Will Thank You For Getting This Car Key Repair

Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are a myriad of possible reasons that your key isn't turning. Some are simple fixes while others require more technical expertise or assistance from a professional.

AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that don't contain chips by choosing the right key blank and utilizing a machine to copy the contours of your current key. The process typically takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's key will stop functioning at the worst time. For instance, if you are loading groceries into the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you're heading back home after a long working day. The good news is that if the issue is caused by your key fob battery, or a dead lock it is generally easy to repair and could help you save the cost of an expensive replacement.

The first thing to try is replacing the battery in your key fob in case it's not charging anymore. This often fixes the problem particularly if you've been using it for a while and has been jostled around a lot. If you still have problems, a quick visit to your local AutoZone might be able help.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, it could contain a transponder chip inside the plastic head of your key. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code each time your key is inserts into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" which either accepts and starts your car's engine or blocks it from beginning.

You may be able reset the chip by yourself if you follow the instructions in the owner's manual. It could include opening and closing doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronic devices and pressing a number of buttons in a particular sequence. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to change the keys in case you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships also do this, but they might require proof of ownership as well as an amount of money.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a fundamental 3D geometry shape. It's a form that has two circular bases joined by an elongated surface, which is an exact distance from the center. This is referred to as the height of a cylindrical. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also used in the manufacture of car engine parts.

If a key fails it is possible to replace the cylinder too. This is an inexpensive repair that you could do yourself. If you're skilled with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock from the local auto parts shop and replace it in accordance with the directions in your owner’s manual. It's not always an easy process and it's more convenient to let someone else take care of it.

If your car keys won't turn on the engine or go into the ignition it could be an issue with the battery or cylinder. Changing the battery on your key fob is one of the first things you need to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob will get a lot used and bumped around, which means it could need to be cleaned and changed.

This is usually performed by a locksmith or your car dealership, based on the kind of vehicle you own. If you own an older model vehicle It is recommended to visit an area hardware store that specializes in automotive key repair keys or locks. A hardware store can usually cut a standard car key and supply a spare, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to make the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time keys get beaten. They can get tangled in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in places that are difficult to reach. This is why it's important to check the grooves of your key to ensure that they're clean and in good condition. If they aren't then the grooves will eventually become worn, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are many things you can try to get your key off the ignition. First try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.

A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers inside the cylinder. This could cause the pins not to drop correctly, preventing the key from being successfully inserted. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder can assist in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.

Some recommend tapping the end of the ignition key with the hammer of a small size. This could damage the ignition cylinder and the key. It's better to use a tackhammer to knock the key, but be careful not to strike it too hard.

If you have tried these suggestions but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it could be time to contact an expert. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to safely disassemble the ignition and extract your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, like most things that run on batteries - it will eventually fail. Fortunately, you can replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as good as new.

The first step is to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle or asking a local locksmith what type of battery it is. Then, buy the appropriate replacement from the local hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is also possible to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so this, make sure you use a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob, without causing 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 to charge properly in the absence of this. Once the battery is installed, close the key fob and snap it back together.

Test the new key by pressing the button and then pointing it at your vehicle. If everything is working just as it should, it's time to hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. You'll soon be an expert in replacing the car key battery. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more tips on how to repair car key fob you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not quite ready to repair your key, we can help with affordable key fob repairs (just click In).

Bent Key

The last thing you would 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. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be released by normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.

Generally speaking, the issue with a key getting stuck in the ignition is that it is excessively worn and is no longer working properly with the lock wafers. This could mean that you require an ignition cylinder that is new, or an ignition key.

If the key is still able to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned properly it will require an hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You can also use the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It could take several tries to get the key in the proper alignment.

If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it means that the teeth are excessively worn and are no longer connecting the wafers in the lock properly. In this situation you'll require an entirely new key as soon as you can. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealership you purchased your car from and asking for the VIN-cut keys repair near me that are exactly like your old key. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying bend the key you have already got into shape.