8 Tips To Up Your Car Key Repair Game

Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many possible reasons why your key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require more technical knowledge or help from an expert.

AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't have chip by choosing the right key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your existing key. This service typically only takes a few minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will be inoperable at the most unavoidable times - for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk, on your way to the gym or home after a long day. If the problem is caused by an unlocked deadlock or your key fob, it's typically easy to solve. This could save you from needing to purchase a new vehicle.

The first thing to try is to replace the battery on your key fob in case it's not charging anymore. This can often fix the issue, especially if you've had it for a while, and it's been tossed around frequently. If you still have problems it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to help.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle it may contain a transponder chip inside the head of your key. The idea behind it is to be a better anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code when your key is put into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer", which either accepts and starts your car's engine, or rejects and prevents it from starting.

You might be able to reset the chip by yourself by following the instructions in the owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights, and press series buttons in a specific order. If you're unable to accomplish this by yourself, you need to note that most locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram the keys for a fee. Some car dealerships can perform this, however they might require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is among the most basic 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface that is a set distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also found in many car engine components.

If a key is damaged it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder as well. This is a simple repair that you can usually do yourself. If you're skilled with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock from the local auto parts store and then replace it according to the instructions in your owner’s manual. But, it's not always a simple process, and it's often easier to let a professional handle it for you.

If your car keys do not turn on the engine or turn on the ignition it could be a problem with the cylinder or battery. Changing the battery on your key fob is among the first things you should try, and it might fix the problem. Your key fob likely gets lots of use and is moved around a lot, which is why often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car.

This is usually done either by an auto dealership or locksmiths, based on the type of vehicle you have. If you own an older model, you should consider trying a local hardware store that has a specialization in keys for automotive locks. A hardware store can usually cut the standard car key and give you an alternative, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or evidence of ownership in order to make the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys may become damaged. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses, and pockets, and bent in difficult-to-access places. It is important to check the grooves on your key regularly to ensure they're clean and intact. If they're not then the grooves will eventually get worn down making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

If your key is stuck in the ignition there are a couple of alternatives you can take to help it out. First try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is related to the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to allow it to get aligned with the internal components.

A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misaligned small tumblers in the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop properly, preventing the key from being inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder may aid in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.

Some people suggest that you tap the tip of the ignition key using the hammer of a small size. This can damage the ignition cylinder and the key. It is safer to use a tackhammer to knock the key, but be careful not to hit it too hard.

If you have tried all of these tips but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to call an expert. A qualified locksmith or mechanic will be able to safely disassemble the car ignition and then remove the key.

Battery

The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your vehicle. However, it is likely to die like all things powered by batteries. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be like new.

First, you'll need locate the correct battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle, or asking a locksmith at your local store which kind of battery it uses. Then, you can purchase the appropriate replacement from an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is also possible to remove the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail, or screwdriver to force the fob out without creating internal damage.

Once  car key fob repair near me  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. The battery will not be able charge properly in the absence of this. Close the key fob once the battery is installed.

Test out your new key by pressing the button and then pointing it at the vehicle. If everything functions according to plan then it's time to get in and take a look at your newly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert at changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Check out our blog for more tips on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you are not ready yet, we offer affordable keyfob repair services.

Bent Key

The last thing you'd wish to happen to your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock, or worse still, stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too far and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.

The most common issue with a key getting stuck in the ignition is that it is excessively worn and is no longer engaging the lock wafers properly. It may also be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder or just get a new key.

If the key is able to be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned correctly, then you will need to flatten it out using the help of a Hammer. Make sure you use a soft-faced hammer so as not to damage the lock cylinder or the key. Alternatively, you could make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few tries 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 have become overly worn and are no longer engaging the wafers inside the lock properly. If this is the case, a replacement key is required as soon as is possible. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealership where you bought your car, and soliciting an VIN cut key that is exactly the same as the one you had previously. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying to bend your current key back to form.