Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons your car key may not turn. Some are simple fixes and others require more technical expertise or assistance from a professional.

AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that do not have chip by choosing a matching key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This process typically takes just minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes a car key can stop working at the most unavoidable times - like when you're loading groceries into your trunk, while heading to the gym or home after an exhausting day. If the issue is due to a deadlock or a key fob, it's generally easy to fix. This can save you from having to buy a new vehicle.

The first step is replacing the battery in your key fob in case it's not holding a charge anymore. This is a good solution, especially if your key fob is smashed frequently. If you're still having issues then a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to assist.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, it could have a transponder chip in the head of your key. These chips are designed to be more efficient anti-theft devices. They emit a unique codes when your key inserts into the ignition. This signal is detected by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and starts your engine or rejects it and stops your vehicle from starting.

Based on the model of your vehicle depending on the model, you might be able to reset the chip by following the directions in the owner's manual. It is possible to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights and press a series buttons in a specific order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships will perform this task for you, but might require proof of ownership and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface at an exact distance from the center. This is known as the height of the Cylinder. Toilet rolls as well as cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also used in the manufacture of car engine components.

If a key is damaged it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder as well. This is an inexpensive repair car remote control key that you can typically do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto parts store and follow the directions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. However, it's not always an easy process, and it's often easier to let a professional handle it for you.

If your car key repair keys aren't entering the ignition or turning on the engine, the problem could be related to the cylinder or the battery. The battery change inside your key fob is among the first things to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob will be frequently used and jostled, so it could require cleaning and reset.

It is usually carried out by an auto dealership or a locksmith, depending on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, you should consider visiting a local hardware store that is specialized in keys for automotive locks. A hardware store will typically cut the standard car key and give you a spare, while the dealer will require the VIN number of your vehicle or evidence of ownership in order to make the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time keys are prone to a beating. They get jumbled around in purses, pockets and drawers, and they could even be bent in a hard-to-reach place. It is essential to examine the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they're clean and intact. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear out making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

If your key becomes stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to aid in removing it. Try using a spare key to determine if the issue lies with the the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.

A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misalignment of small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop correctly, preventing the key from being inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder could help to re-align these tumblers, ensuring that the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Some people suggest tapping the end of the ignition key with an hammer that is small. This can damage the ignition cylinder and the key. It is safer to use a tackhammer to knock the key down, however, be careful not to strike it too hard.

If you've tried all of these tips but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to contact a professional. A professional locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the ignition of your car and then remove the key.

Battery

The car key fob is a handy tool that allows you to lock and unlock your car. However, it is likely to die like all things that are powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as excellent as new.

You'll first need to find the correct battery. The best way to begin is by reading the owner's manual or talking to locksmiths about the kind of battery your car uses. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may also need to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so this, make sure you use a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing any internal damage.

The battery should be inserted carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. The battery will not be able to charge properly if you don't make this a priority. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.

Press the button on your new key and point it at the car key repair. If everything functions according to plan then it's time to get into your freshly restored car key. In no time, life's interruptions won't be an issue because you'll be an expert in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for more tips on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're still not ready to repair your key, we can help with low-cost key fob repair.

Bent Key

The most undesirable thing that could happen with your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock or worse, it gets stuck inside. This type of key can usually be repaired. However, if the key is too far in and cannot be removed with normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.

The key may be too worn out to engage the lock key repair near me wafers correctly. This could mean that you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or a key.

If the key is still able to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned correctly, you will need a hammer to flatten it. Be sure to use a hammer that is soft so as to not damage the lock cylinder or key. You can also utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It may take several attempts to get the key in alignment.

If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it could be that the teeth are excessively worn and are no longer connecting the wafers in the lock properly. If this is the case, a replacement key will be required as soon as possible. This can be accomplished by taking the key stub to the dealer where you bought your car, and request an VIN cut key that is exactly the same as your old one. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying to bend the key you have already got into shape.