Why Your Car Key Repair May Not Turn

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

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't have chips by choosing a matching key blank and utilizing a machine to copy the contours of your existing key. The process typically takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will stop working at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading groceries into your trunk, on the way to the gym, or when you're heading home after an exhausting day. If the issue is caused by a deadlock or your key fob, it's usually simple to fix. This can save you from having to buy a new vehicle.

The first thing to try is to replace the battery in your key fob if it's not keeping a charge. 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 trouble, a quick trip to your local AutoZone could aid.

If you're driving a newer vehicle it may have a transponder chip in the plastic head of your key. It is designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code when your key is put into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" that either starts and accepts your car's engine or denies it from starting.

Depending on the specific model of your car key repair company You may be able to reset the chip yourself by following the steps in your owner's manual. It may require closing and opening doors, turning on and off lights or electronics and pressing a set of buttons in a specific 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 documents and an amount of money.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a basic 3D geometry shape. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by a curved area at an exact distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in the manufacture of car engine components.

You might also have to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and it's usually feasible to perform it yourself. If you are skilled with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock from your local auto parts store and replace it according to the instructions in your owner’s manual. It's not always a simple process and is often better to have a professional take care of it for you.

If your car keys won't turn on the engine or enter the ignition it could be due to an issue with the cylinder or battery. The battery change in your key fob is among the first things you should do, and it may solve the issue. Your key fob will be used a lot and jostled, so it might require cleaning and reset.

It is usually carried out by an auto dealership or a locksmith, based on what type of vehicle you have. If you own an older model vehicle It is recommended to visit a local hardware shop that specializes in automotive keys or locks. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and give you an alternative, while the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to make an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys can be damaged over time. They can get lost in purses, pockets and drawers, and they may even be bent in a hard-to-reach location. It is essential to examine the grooves of your key frequently to ensure that they are well-maintained and clean. If not, the grooves of the key will eventually wear out and make it difficult to insert and remove the key.

There are a variety of ways you can remove your key from the ignition. Try using a spare key to determine if the problem lies with the the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to help it align properly with the internal components.

A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins not to drop correctly, preventing the key from being inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or Key Repair graphite powder may aid in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.

Some people suggest that you tap the end of the ignition key using an hammer that is small. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder and the key. It is safer to use a tack hammer to knock the key, however, be careful not to strike it too hard.

If you have tried these suggestions but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it could be time to contact a professional. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to securely disassemble your car ignition and then remove the key.

Battery

The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, as with all things that run on batteries - it will eventually die. You can easily replace the batteries yourself, and your mobile key fob repair fob will be just as good as new.

First, you'll need find the right battery. The best way to begin is by reading your owner's manual, or speaking with a locksmith about the type of battery your vehicle utilizes. Then, buy a compatible replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may have to take apart your key fob to find the battery slot. It is crucial to use a soft tool, like a fingernail or screwdriver to force the fob open without damaging the internals.

Insert the new battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. Otherwise the battery won't be able charge correctly. Once the battery is installed, close the key fob and snap it back to its original position.

Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything works as it should, it's time to hop in and take a look at your newly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert at changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Follow our blog for key Repair more advice on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The most undesirable thing that could happen with your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. This kind of key can usually be repaired. If the key is stuck for too long and cannot be released by normal twisting, then the only option is to replace it.

The most common issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is that it has become excessively worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers properly. This could mean that you need an entirely new ignition cylinder or an ignition key.

If the key is still capable of being put into the cylinder but it's not aligned correctly it will require a hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or key. You can also make use of the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It may require several attempts to get the key back into the proper alignment.

If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it is a sign that the teeth have become overly worn and are not engaging the wafers in the lock properly. If this is the case, a new key will be required as soon as is possible. You can do this by taking the key stub back to the dealership where you bought your vehicle from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to your old key. This is a lot easier and cheaper than trying your current key to get back in shape.