Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons why your car key may not turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical expertise or assistance from a professional.

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

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will be inoperable at the most inconvenient times, for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk, on your way to the gym or home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the problem is caused by your key fob battery or dead lock it is typically a simple repair key fob and could help you save the cost of an expensive replacement.

If your key fob isn't holding a charge the first thing 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 tossed around a lot. If you're still struggling, a quick trip to your local AutoZone will assist.

Transponder chips can be found inside the head of plastic on your key if you drive a newer car. These chips are designed to be more efficient anti-theft devices. They emit unique codes when your key inserted in the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" that either allows you to start the engine of your vehicle, or rejects and prevents it from starting.

It is possible to 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. If you're unable to accomplish this by yourself, you need to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram these keys at a cost. Some car dealerships will perform this task for you, but may require proof of ownership and an amount of money.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a fundamental 3D geometric shape. It's a form with two circular bases connected by a curved surface at an exact distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls and cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also used in car engine components.

You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key breaks. It's a fairly inexpensive Repair car key remote that is usually possible to do yourself. If you're skilled with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock from the local auto parts store and replace it according to the guidelines in your owner’s manual. It's not always a simple process and it's usually better to let a professional do it for you.

If your car keys aren't getting into the ignition or starting the engine, the issue could be related to the cylinder or battery. Changing the battery on your key fob is among the first things you should try, and it might solve the issue. Your key fob likely gets frequent use and is tossed around a lot, and often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your vehicle.

It is usually carried out by an auto dealership or a locksmith, depending on what type of vehicle you have. If you have an older model, you should consider trying a local hardware store that is specialized in automotive locks or Repair car key remote keys. A hardware store should be able to cut the standard key and supply you with an additional. However, the dealer may require the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to be able to make an alternative replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys may become damaged. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in places that are difficult to reach. It is crucial to check the grooves of your key frequently to ensure they're clean and intact. If not the grooves of the key will eventually wear away making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

If your key is stuck in the ignition, there are a few alternatives you can take to assist it. Try using a spare key to determine if the issue lies with the the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your key into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key has become stuck in the ignition cylinder which can occur when small tumblers inside of the cylinder misalign. This could cause the pins to not drop properly, which prevents the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder may assist in re-aligning these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Finally, some people may suggest tapping the end of the key using an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this can actually damage the key and the cylinder of ignition. You can use a tack hammer instead of the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.

If you have tried these suggestions but are still unable remove your car keys, it could be time to contact a professional. A qualified locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the ignition of your car and take out your key.

Battery

The car key fob is a handy tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, just like all things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually die. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as good as new.

The first step is to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a locksmith at your local store which kind of battery it uses. You can buy batteries at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may also need to take apart the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. If you do it, it is essential that you make use of a soft tool, such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing internal damage.

Once you have opened the key fob and inserted the new battery into the slot. Make sure the positive and negative sides of the batteries are aligned. Otherwise the battery won't be able charge properly. Once the battery is in place close the key fob and then snap it back to its original position.

Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it towards the vehicle. It's now time to get in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be a pro at changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Make sure you follow our blog for more advice on how to fix your vehicle at home. If you're not prepared yet, we offer affordable keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The most undesirable thing that could happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or even worse, stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can be repaired. If the key is stuck for too long and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, then the only option is to replace it.

The key may be too worn out to connect the lock wafers in a proper. It could be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder or just get a new key.

If the key can still be inserted in the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, then you'll have to flatten it with a Hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to prevent damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You could also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into alignment. It could take a few attempts to get the key back in the proper alignment.

If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it could be that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't connecting the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. In this situation, repair Car key remote you will need to replace your key as quickly as possible. You can accomplish this by taking the key stub back to the dealership where you purchased your car from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to your previous key. This is a lot easier and cheaper than trying your current key to get back into shape.