Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons your car key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require a bit more technical knowledge or help from a professional.

AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without chip using a key blank that matches your existing key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. The process usually takes just minutes.

Ignition Socket

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

If your key fob is not keeping a charge, the first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This can often fix the issue, especially if you've had it for a while and it's been jostled around a lot. If you're still experiencing issues then a visit to your local AutoZone could be able to help.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, it might have a transponder chip in 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 was inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" which either allows you to start the engine of your vehicle or denies it from starting.

Depending on your specific car You may be able to reset the chip yourself by following the steps in the owner's manual. It may involve closing and opening doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronics and pressing 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 will perform this task for you, but might require proof of ownership documents and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is among the most basic 3D shapes in geometry. It's a form with two circular bases connected by a curved surface at a set distance from the center, referred to as 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 can also be found in many car engine parts.

You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive Repair Car Key Remote, and is typically feasible to carry out. 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 for how to replace it. It's not always a simple process and is often better to let a professional do it for you.

If your car keys are not being inserted into the ignition or starting the engine, the problem could be due to the cylinder or the battery. The battery change in your key fob is among the first things you need to try, and it might solve the issue. Your key fob is likely to be used a lot and tossed around, so it might need to be cleaned and reprogrammed.

This is usually handled by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, depending on the model of car you own. If you own an older model car It is recommended to visit an area hardware store that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store can usually cut the standard car key and provide an extra key, whereas the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or evidence of ownership in order to make an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time, our keys are prone to a beating. They get jumbled around in purses, pockets and drawers, and can even be bent in a difficult-to-access area. That's why it's important to regularly check the grooves of your keys to make sure they're clean and in good condition. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear out, making it difficult to remove and insert the key.

There are a variety of options you can use to get your key off the ignition. First, try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.

A key jamming in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misaligned small tumblers in the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop properly and block the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder could assist in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.

Some people suggest that you tap the tip of the ignition key fob repair near me using the hammer of a small size. This could damage the ignition cylinder and the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.

If you have tried all of these methods but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it might be time to call a professional. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, it will eventually end up dying just like other devices powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as excellent as new.

You'll first need to find the right battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle, or asking a locksmith in your area which kind of battery they use. Then, buy an equivalent replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so it, it is essential that you use a soft tool such as a screwdriver, or even your fingernail to pry open the fob without causing any internal damage.

Place the battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line to each other. Otherwise, the battery won't be able charge correctly. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.

Test the new key by pressing the button and then pointing it at the vehicle. Now it's time to step into your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be a pro at replacing the car key battery. Good luck! Check out our blog for more tips on how to repair broken car key to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not ready yet, we offer low-cost keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you would wish to happen to your car key is for it to become bent inside the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can usually be repaired. However in the event that the key is too far into and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.

The key may be too worn out to engage the lock wafers properly. It may be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder or simply purchase a new key repair shops near me.

If the key can still be inserted in the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, you will need to flatten it with a hammer. Make sure to use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. Alternatively, you could use the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take several attempts to get the key into the right position.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are terribly worn out and cannot effectively engage the wafers. In this instance you'll need to replace your key as quickly 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 exactly like your old key. This is much simpler and less expensive than trying to use your current key to get back to normal.