Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car key won't turn. view site… are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that do not have a chip by selecting a matching key blank and using an instrument to replicate the contours of your existing key. The process usually takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key will stop working at the worst possible moment. For example, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or even when you are heading home after a long day at work. The good news is that when the problem is due to a key fob battery or dead lock, it's generally easy to fix and could save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
The first thing you can try is to replace the battery in your key fob if it's no longer keeping a charge. This is a viable option particularly in the event that your key fob is smashed a lot. If you're still having trouble, a quick trip to your local AutoZone can assist.
Transponder chips could be embedded in the plastic head on your key if driving a newer vehicle. These chips are designed to be more efficient in preventing theft. They emit unique codes when your key inserted in the ignition. This signal is then read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins the engine or denies it and prevents your vehicle from starting.
It is possible to reset the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual. It could include closing and opening doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronics and pressing a set of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to change the keys in case you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships also do this, but they may require proof of ownership and a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is one of the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases connected with an elongated surface, which is an undefined distance from the center. This is called the height of a Cylinder. Toilet rolls, cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also used in the manufacture of car engine components.
When a key breaks, you may need to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can usually do yourself. If you are skilled with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock from your local auto parts shop and replace it according to the guidelines in the owner's manual. It's not always an easy process and it's better to let someone else handle it.
If your car keys do not start the engine or go into the ignition it could be due to an issue with the battery or cylinder. Changing the battery on your key fob is among the first things to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to see a lot of use and is tossed around a lot, so sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your vehicle.
This is typically done by the car dealership or by a locksmith, based on the kind of vehicle you have. If you own an older model car it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that specializes in automotive keys or locks. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and provide an alternative, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to make the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys take a beating. They are tossed around in pockets, purses and drawers, and may even be bent in a hard-to-reach place. It is essential to examine the grooves of your key frequently to ensure they're well-maintained and clean. If not the grooves of the key will eventually wear out making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
There are many ways you can remove your key from the ignition. Try using a spare to determine if the issue is with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, move your key into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key is jammed in the ignition cylinder, which can occur when small tumblers inside the cylinder misalign. This could cause the pins to not drop properly and prevent the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder can aid in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key with a small hammer. This could cause damage to the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. It is safer to use a tack hammer to knock the key down, but be cautious not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried these suggestions but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to call a professional. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to 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 car. However, it will eventually die like all things that are powered by batteries. You can replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be as good as new.
First, you'll need find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your car or asking a locksmith at your local store what type of battery it uses. You can purchase an alternative battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may have to take apart the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. If you do this, make sure you use a soft tool such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail to push open the fob, without causing internal damage.
The battery should be inserted carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in line. The battery won't be able charge properly in the absence of this. Close the key fob after the battery has been installed.
Test the new key by pressing the button and pointing it at the vehicle. If everything functions as it should you can hop into your freshly restored car key. In no time interruptions in your life will not be a problem since you'll be a pro 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 are not ready yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you would 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 is usually fixed. If the key is stuck too far and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The key might be worn out and not connect the lock wafers in a proper. It could also be a sign that you must replace the ignition cylinder, or simply purchase a new key.
If the key is in a position to be placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned properly then you'll need an hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to prevent damaging the lock's cylinder or key. Alternately, you can make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It could take several tries to get the key back into the proper alignment.
If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are excessively worn and do not engage the wafers correctly. In this instance you'll need to replace your key as quickly as possible. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealership where you bought your vehicle from and requesting an VIN-cut key that's identical to the previous key. This is much easier and cheaper than trying your existing key to get back to normal.