Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

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

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't contain chips by choosing an identical key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your existing key. This process usually takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the worst possible moment. For example, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or on your way to the gym. Or even when you're heading home from a long workday. If the problem is due to an unlocked deadlock or your key fob, it's generally simple to fix. This can help you avoid needing to purchase a new vehicle.

If your key fob is not charging the first thing to do is replace the battery. This is a viable option, especially when your key fob has been jostled a lot. If you're still having trouble taking a trip to your local AutoZone could help.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, it could have a transponder chip in the head of your key. These chips are designed to be more efficient in preventing theft. They emit unique code each time your key is inserts into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer", which either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle, or rejects and prevents it from starting.

Based on the model of your vehicle You may be capable of resetting the chip on your own by following the instructions in your owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, switch on and off electronic devices or lights and press a series buttons in a specific order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to modify your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships are able to assist you in this process, but they may require proof of ownership documents and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is one of the most basic 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases connected with a curved surface at an exact distance from the center. This is known as the height of a cylindrical. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also found in many car engine parts.

When a key breaks it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder too. It's a fairly inexpensive repair car keys near me, and it's usually possible to do yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto part store and follow the instructions in your owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy task and it's more convenient to let someone else do it.

If your car keys are not being inserted into the ignition or turning on the engine, the issue could be due to the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to test changing the battery on your key fob first. This may fix the problem. The key fob you have is likely to get frequent use and is moved around a lot, which is why often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your vehicle.

This is usually performed by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, depending on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model car it is worth visiting an area hardware store that specializes in automotive keys or locks. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and supply a spare, while the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to make an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time, our keys get beaten. They are tossed around in purses, pockets and drawers, and they could even be bent in a hard-to-reach location. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves of your keys to ensure that they're in good shape and clean. If they're not, the grooves will eventually wear down and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.

If your key gets stuck in the ignition, there are a few alternatives you can take to assist it. Try using a spare to determine if the issue is with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, jiggle your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key is stuck in the ignition cylinder which can occur when small tumblers inside the cylinder are not aligned. This could cause the pins to not drop correctly and block the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder can assist in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Some people might suggest tapping the end of the key with the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this could actually damage the key and the ignition cylinder. It is safer to use a tack hammer to knock the key, but be cautious not to strike it too hard.

If you've tried all these tips and are still unable to get rid of your car key, it could be time to contact an expert. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified can safely remove the ignition and retrieve your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. However, it will eventually die like all things that are powered by batteries. Luckily, you can replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as good as new.

First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. The best way to begin is by reading your owner's manual, or speaking with locksmiths about the kind of battery your vehicle utilizes. You can buy an alternative battery at your local auto key repair near me parts store or hardware store. You may have to take apart the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to make use of a soft tool like a fingernail or screwdriver, to pry the fob open without damaging the internals.

After you have opened the key fob and inserted the new battery into the slot. 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. Close the key fob key repair once the battery has been installed.

Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car keys repairs near me. If everything works as it should, it's time to hop into your freshly restored car key. Before you know it interruptions in your life won't be an issue because you'll be an expert in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Follow our blog for more tips on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready to repair your key, we can help with affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you'd like to happen to your car key is for it to become bent inside the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can usually be fixed. If the key is stuck for too long and cannot be released by normal twisting, then the only option is replacing it.

Generally, the problem with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is the fact that it is excessively worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers properly. It may be a sign that you must replace the ignition key repair near me cylinder, or just purchase a new one.

If the key is able to be inserted into the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned properly, then you'll have to flatten it out using a hammer. Be sure to use a soft-faced hammer so as not to damage the key or lock cylinder. You can also utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It could take a few attempts to get the key back in alignment.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, this means that the teeth are overly worn out and no longer effectively engage the wafers. If this is the case, a new key will be needed as soon as possible. You can accomplish this by taking the key stub back to the dealership you purchased your vehicle from and requesting a VIN-cut key that is exactly like your old key. This is much easier and cheaper than trying to bend your current key back to form.