Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons your car key may not turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or professional help.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that don't contain chip by choosing a matching key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. 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 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.
The first thing you can try is to replace the battery on your key fob in case it's not charging anymore. This is a great solution, especially in the event that your key fob has been jostled frequently. If you're still having trouble making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will help.
Transponder chips can be found in the plastic head on your key if you own a newer car. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when your key is put into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" which either accepts and starts the engine of your vehicle or denies it from beginning.
You may be able reset the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual. You may need to open and close doors, switch on and off electronics or lights and press a series of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships are able to perform this task for you, but might require proof of ownership papers and a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a basic 3D shape in geometry. It's a form with two circular bases joined by a curved surface at a fixed distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also used in the manufacture of car engine components.
If a key fails it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive repair that is usually feasible to carry out. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto part store and follow the directions in your owner's manual to replace it. It's not always a simple process and it's easier to let someone else do it.
If your car keys won't turn on the engine or go into the ignition, it could be a problem with the battery or cylinder. It is recommended to change the battery on your key fob first. This may fix the issue. The key fob you have is likely to get a lot of use and is moved around a lot, and it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car.
This is usually performed by a locksmith or your car dealer, based on the kind of car you have. If you have an older model, you should consider looking for a local hardware shop that specializes in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store will usually be able to cut a standard 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 take a beating. They can get tangled in drawers, purses, and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. That's why it is so important to regularly inspect the grooves on your key 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 insert and remove the key.
There are a variety of options you can use to free your key from the ignition. First, try using a spare key to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to help it get aligned with the internal components.
A key jamming in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misaligned small tumblers within the cylinder. This can cause the pins not to drop correctly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder could help to re-align these tumblers, so keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
In addition, some may suggest tapping the edge of the key using an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this could actually damage the key and the cylinder of ignition. Make use of a tack-hammer instead an hammer, but do not hit 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 take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your vehicle. However, it is likely to end up dying just like other devices powered by batteries. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as excellent as new.
First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a locksmith at your local store what type of battery they use. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may also have to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is important to employ a soft tool, such as a fingernail, or screwdriver to open the fob out without damaging the internals.
Once you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line up with each other. Otherwise the battery won't be able charge properly. 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 vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be a pro at replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for more tips on how to fix your vehicle at home. If you're not sure to repair your key, we can help with affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you would want to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can usually be repaired. However, if the key is too far into and can no longer be removed with normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
Generally speaking, the issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is that it has become excessively worn and is not engaging the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you require a new ignition cylinder, or an ignition key.
If the key is still capable of being 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 hammer in order to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You can also make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It may take a few attempts to bring the key back into alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, it indicates that the teeth are terribly worn out and no longer effectively engage the wafers. In this case, you will need a new key as soon as you can. You can do this by taking the stub of your key back to the dealer you purchased your vehicle from and requesting a VIN-cut key that is identical to your previous key. link web site is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend your current key back into shape.