Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car key may not turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical expertise or professional help.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that don't contain chips by choosing an identical key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This service usually takes only minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes a car key can not work at the most inconvenient times - like when you're loading groceries into your trunk, on your way to the gym or heading home after a long day. The good news is that when the problem is caused by your key fob battery, or a dead lock, it's usually very simple to repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.
If your key fob isn't holding a charge The first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This often fixes the problem, especially if you've had it for a while and has been tossed around frequently. If you're still struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone can assist.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle it may have a transponder chip in the head of your key. These chips are designed to be more efficient in preventing theft. They emit unique code each time your key is was inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine or rejects it and prevents your car from starting.
Based on the model of your vehicle, you may be in a position to reset the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual. It could involve opening and closing doors, turning on and off lights or electronics, and pressing a set of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are unable to do it yourself. Some car dealerships can perform this, however they might require proof of ownership as well as a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases that are connected by a curved area at a fixed distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. A few real-world examples of a cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of automobile engine components.
You might also have to replace the cylinder if your key fails. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can usually do yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto part store and follow the directions in your owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy task and it's easier to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys aren't being inserted into the ignition or starting the engine, it could be due to the cylinder or the battery. Change the battery in your key fob is one of the first things to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob likely gets lots of use and is moved around a lot, so often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your vehicle.
This is usually done by a locksmith or your car dealership, based on the model of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth trying a local hardware store that is specialized in automotive locks or keys. The hardware store will typically be able to cut a standard key and provide you with an extra. However the dealer might need the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership in order to create a new replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys get beaten. They can get lost in pockets, purses and drawers, and can even be bent in a hard-to-reach location. That's why it is so important to check the grooves on your key to make sure they're clean and in good condition. If not the grooves on the key will eventually wear out and make it difficult to remove and insert the key.
There are several ways you can free your key from the ignition. Try using a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, move the key in and out of the ignition to allow it to align properly with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key has become jammed in the ignition cylinder which can occur when small tumblers inside the cylinder misalign. This could cause the pins to not drop properly, which prevents the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder can aid in re-aligning these tumblers, so keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key with an hammer that is small. This can damage the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. It is safer to employ a tack hammer to knock the key, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these tips and are not able to get rid of your car key, it may be time to call an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able safely disassemble the car ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a handy tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, it will eventually end up dying just like other devices that are powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as good as new.
The first step is to locate the correct 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. Then, buy repair broken car key from an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. If so it, it is essential that you make use of a soft tool, like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to push open the fob without causing internal damage.
After you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match up. Otherwise the battery won't be able to charge properly. Close the key fob once the battery is installed.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything is working according to plan then it's time to get into your freshly restored car key. In a matter of minutes, life's interruptions won't be an issue because you'll be a pro in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Check out our blog for more advice on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to occur with your car key is for it to become bent inside the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. This type of key is usually repaired. However in the event that the key is too far in and cannot be removed using normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The key could be too worn out to engage the lock wafers correctly. broken car key repair could be an indication that you need to replace the ignition cylinder or just purchase a new one.
If the key can still be inserted in the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned properly, you will need to flatten it with an hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to prevent damaging the lock cylinder or key. You can also make use of the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into alignment. It could take several tries to get the key in alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, it means that the teeth are terribly worn and do not properly engage the wafers. In this instance you'll need an entirely new key as soon as you can. You can do this by taking the key stub back to the dealership where you purchased your car from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's exactly like your old key. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying to bend your existing key back to form.