Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons your car keys won't turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical expertise or expert assistance.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't have chips by choosing an identical key blank and using an instrument to replicate the contours of your current key. This process usually takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For instance, if you are loading groceries into the trunk or heading to the gym. Or even when you're returning home after a long day at work. The good news is that if the problem is due to your key fob battery or a dead lock, it's typically a simple repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.

If your key fob isn't keeping a charge The first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This usually solves the issue particularly if you've had it for a while and has been tossed around frequently. If you're still having issues making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will assist.

If you're driving a more modern vehicle, it might contain a transponder chip inside the head of your plastic key. The idea behind it is to be a better anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code when your key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins the engine or denies it and stops your car from getting started.

It is possible to reset the chip yourself if you follow the instructions in the owner's manual. It could include opening and closing doors or turning off lights or electronics and pressing a set of buttons in a specific order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to change the keys in case you are unable to do it yourself. Some car dealerships also do this, but they might require proof of ownership and an amount of money.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a fundamental 3D geometric shape. It's a shape that has two circular bases that are connected by an elongated surface, which is an exact distance from the center. This is referred to as the height of the Cylinder. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in car engine components.

You might also have to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and it's usually possible to do yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder from the local Auto Key Fob Repair parts store and follow the steps in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always a simple process and it's easier to let someone else handle it.

If your car keys aren't being inserted into the ignition or starting the engine, the problem could be related to the cylinder or the battery. Changing the battery on your key fob is among the first things you should try, and it could solve the issue. Your key fob is likely to be used a lot and jostled, so it may need to be cleaned and changed.

This is usually done either by a car dealership or a locksmith, based on the type of vehicle you have. If you own an older model vehicle it is worth visiting an area hardware store that specialises 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 vehicle or proof of ownership to create an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys may become damaged over time. They can get tangled in purses, drawers and pockets, and even bent in places that are difficult to reach. This is why it's important to check the grooves on your key to make sure they're in good shape and clean. If they aren't the grooves of the key will eventually wear away making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

There are a variety of things you can try to free your key from the ignition. First try using a spare key to see whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.

A key jamming inside the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins not to drop correctly, preventing the key from being successfully inserted. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder may assist in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key can easily come out of the ignition.

In addition, some may suggest tapping the edge of the key using an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this can actually damage the key and the cylinder that controls ignition. It's better to use a tackhammer to knock the key fob repair service off, however, be careful not to strike it too hard.

If you've tried all of these methods but you're not able to get rid of your car key, it may be time to contact a professional. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to disassemble the ignition and extract your key.

Battery

The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, like most things that rely on batteries, it will eventually die. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as excellent as new.

You'll need to first locate the right battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your car or asking a local locksmith which kind of battery they use. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may need to disassemble the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. If you do, it is important that you employ a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to push open the fob without causing internal damage.

Insert the new battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure the positive and the negative sides of the batteries are in line. The battery won't be able charge properly if you don't make this a priority. Once the battery is fully charged, close the key fob and then snap it back to its original position.

Test out your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at your vehicle. Now it's time to hop in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. Before you know it interruptions in your life will be no problem because you'll be a pro at car key battery replacement. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more information on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're not prepared yet, we can help you with low-cost keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you'd like to happen to your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock, or even worse, to become stuck inside. Fortunately, Auto Key Fob Repair this type of key can usually 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 replacing 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. This could also mean that you require an ignition cylinder that is new, or the key.

If the key can be inserted into the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll need to flatten it out using an Hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to prevent damaging the lock cylinder or key. Alternately, you can use the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It could require a few tries to bring the key back into alignment.

If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, it indicates that the teeth are terribly worn out and cannot properly engage the wafers. In this instance you'll require a new key as soon as possible. This can be accomplished by taking the stub of your key to the dealer where you bought your car and request a VIN cut key that is exactly the same as your old one. This is much simpler and cheaper than trying your current key to get back into shape.