Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many possible reasons that your key isn't turning. Some are easy fixes, while others require a bit more technical knowledge or help from a professional.
AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without a chip by using a blank key that is identical to your current key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. This process usually takes a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key will stop working at the worst possible time. For example, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you are heading home after a long day at work. The good news is that if the issue is due to a key fob battery, or a dead lock, it's usually very simple to fix and could save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
The first thing to try is to replace the battery on your key fob in case it's not holding a charge anymore. This often fixes the problem particularly if you've been using it for a while and it's been tossed around frequently. If you're still struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone can assist.
Transponder chips could be embedded in the head of plastic on your key if you own an older model vehicle. These chips are designed to be more efficient in preventing theft. They emit a unique code each time your key is inserts into the ignition. The signal is then read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and then starts your engine, or rejects it and stops your car from starting.
You may be able reset the chip on your own by following the directions in the owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights, and press series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to modify your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. car key repair service can also assist you in this process, but they might require proof of ownership documents and an amount of money.
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 set distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls as well as cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine components.
When a key breaks it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder too. It's a fairly inexpensive repair, and is typically possible to do yourself. If you are handy with a toolbox you can purchase a new ignition lock from the local auto parts store and replace it according to the guidelines in the owner's manual. It's not always an easy process and it's more convenient to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys don't turn on the engine or turn on the ignition, it could be an issue with the cylinder or battery. It is an ideal idea to try changing the battery of your key fob first. This could fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to see a lot of use and is moved around a lot, which is why it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car.
It is usually carried out by the car dealership or by a locksmith, based on the kind of vehicle you have. If you have an older model vehicle it is worth visiting an area hardware store that specialises in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store can usually cut a standard car key and supply an alternative, while the dealer will require the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to create an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can become damaged over time. They can get lost in purses, pockets and drawers, and they can even be bent in a difficult-to-access area. It is essential to examine the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure that they are clean and intact. If they aren't, the grooves of the key will eventually wear away and make it difficult to insert and remove the key.
If your key is stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to help it out. First, try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is related to the key or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to help it properly align with the internal components.
A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins to fall off incorrectly, which prevents the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder can assist in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.
In addition, some may suggest tapping the end of the key with a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this can actually damage the key and the ignition cylinder. It is better to use a tackhammer to knock the key down, however, be careful not to 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 contact a professional. A qualified locksmith or mechanic will be able to securely disassemble your car ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a useful 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. You can replace the batteries yourself and your key fob will be just as good as new.
You'll need to first locate the right battery. Start by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle, or asking a locksmith at your local store what type of battery it uses. You can buy an alternative battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may need to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. If so this, make sure you use a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob without causing any internal damage.
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 batteries are in line. Otherwise the battery won't be able charge correctly. Once the battery is installed, close the key fob and then snap it back together.
Test out your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at your vehicle. It's time to get in your car and enjoy your newly restored key. You'll soon be an expert in replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more tips on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you are not ready yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repair services.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd like to happen to your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or even worse, to become stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key is usually fixed. If the key is stuck for too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
Generally speaking, the issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is that it is excessively worn and is not working properly with the lock wafers. It may be a sign that you must replace the ignition cylinder or just purchase a new one.
If the key is still in a position to be inserted into the cylinder, but it's not aligned in the right way it will require a hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or key. You can also utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it 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 cylinder, it means that the teeth have become overly worn and aren't engaging the wafers inside the lock correctly. In this situation you'll need to replace your key as quickly as possible. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's exactly like your old key. This is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend your current key back into shape.