Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car keys won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require 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 identical to your current key. They then utilize a machine to duplicate the contours. The process usually takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes a car key can be inoperable at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk on your way to the gym or heading home after a long day. The good news is that if the issue is caused by your key fob battery or a dead lock, it's generally easy to repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.
If your key fob is not holding a charge, the first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This is a viable option, especially in the event that your key fob has been tossed around frequently. If you still have problems then a visit to your local AutoZone might be able assist.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle it may contain a transponder chip inside the plastic head of your key. It is designed to be a better anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code each time your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" which either allows you to start your car's engine, or rejects and prevents it from beginning.
Depending on the specific model of your car depending on the model, you might be capable of resetting the chip on your own by following the steps in the owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights, and press series of buttons in a certain order. If you're unable to accomplish this on your own, it's important to know that locksmiths and the manufacturer can reprogram the keys for a fee. Some car dealerships are able to do this for you but may require proof of ownership and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometric shape. It's a shape that has two circular bases joined by a curved area at a fixed distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also found in many car engine components.
You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key breaks. This is a simple repair that you could do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto parts store and follow the instructions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. It's not always an easy process and it's better to let someone else do it.
If your car keys don't start the engine or go into the ignition, it could be an issue with the battery or cylinder. It is an ideal idea to try changing the battery of your key fob first. This may fix the issue. Your key fob is likely to be frequently used and bumped around, which means it might need to be cleaned and changed.
This is usually done either by a car dealership or a locksmith, depending on what type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys for automotive locks. A hardware store will typically cut a standard car key and give you an alternative, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to make an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time keys are prone to a beating. They can get tangled in drawers, purses, and pockets, or bent in difficult-to-access places. That's why it is so important to regularly inspect the grooves of your keys to ensure that they are clean and intact. If not, the grooves of the key will eventually wear out and make it difficult to insert and remove the key.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition, there are a few options to help it out. Try using a spare to determine if the issue is with the the ignition switch. Then, move your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key is jammed in the ignition cylinder, which could happen when the small tumblers within the cylinder do not align. This could result in the pins failing to drop correctly, which can prevent the key from being properly inserted. You can align the tumblers with the lock lubricant or graphite.
In addition, some may suggest tapping the edge of the key using an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this can end up damaging the key as well as the cylinder that controls ignition. It's better to use a tackhammer to knock the key down, but be careful not to strike it too hard.
If you have tried all of these methods but are still unable remove your car keys, it could be time to call a professional. A certified locksmith or mechanic can safely remove the ignition and retrieve your key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your car. However, it is likely to go out of service, just like everything else that are powered by batteries. You can easily replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob is like new.
First, you'll need find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your car or asking a local locksmith what type of battery it is. Then, purchase a compatible replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may have to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so, it is important that you employ a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing internal damage.
Insert the new battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match up. Otherwise, the battery won't be able charge correctly. Close the key fob after the battery has been installed.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. Now it's time to hop in your car and enjoy your newly restored key. Before you know it, life's interruptions won't be an issue because you'll be a master at car key battery replacement. Good luck! Check out our blog for more tips on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not quite ready for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to occur with your car key is for it to become bent inside the lock or even worse, stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repairable. However in the event that the key is too far in and cannot be removed using normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.
Generally, remote key fob repair with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is that it has become excessively worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers correctly. This could mean that you need an ignition cylinder that is new, or a key.
If the key is able to be inserted into the cylinder, but it's not aligned in the right way then you'll need an hammer to flatten the key. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You can also make use of the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into alignment. It could take several tries to get the key into alignment.
If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, this means that the teeth are overly worn out and no longer properly engage the wafers. In this case, you will need to replace your key as quickly as you can. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealership you bought your vehicle from and requesting the VIN-cut keys that are exactly like your old key. This is much simpler and cheaper than trying your existing key to get back to normal.