10 Car Key Repair Tricks Experts Recommend
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car key won't turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without a chip using a key blank that matches your existing key. They then use a machine duplicate the contours. The process usually takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes a car key can not work at the most unavoidable times - for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk on your way to the gym, or when you're heading home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the issue is due to your key fob battery or dead lock, it's typically a simple fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.
The first thing to try is replacing the battery in your key fob if it's not holding a charge anymore. This usually solves the issue particularly if you've had it for a while and it's been tossed around frequently. If you're still struggling taking a trip to your local AutoZone can help.
Transponder chips can be found in the head of plastic on your key if you own a newer car. repair car keys near me is designed to be a better anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code each time your key is put into the ignition. The signal is then scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and then starts your engine or rejects it and prevents your vehicle from getting started.
Based on the model of your vehicle depending on the model, you might be in a position to reset the chip yourself by following the steps in the owner's guide. You may need to open and close doors, turn on and off electronic devices or lights, and press series of buttons in a certain order. If you're unable to accomplish this yourself, it's important to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can modify the keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships will also do this, but they might require proof of ownership and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a basic 3D geometry shape. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved surface at a fixed distance away from the center. This is called the height of a cylinder. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also used in car engine components.
If a key fails it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder, too. This is an inexpensive repair that you can usually do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock from your local auto parts store and then replace it in accordance with the directions in your owner’s manual. But, it's not always an easy task and it's usually better to let a professional do it for you.
If your car keys won't turn on the engine or go into the ignition it could be a problem with the cylinder or battery. It is an ideal idea to test changing the battery of your key fob first. This could fix the problem. Your key fob will be used a lot and jostled, so it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed.
This is typically done by the car dealership or by locksmiths, based on what type of vehicle you have. If you have an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that specialises in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store will typically cut a standard car key and supply an extra key, whereas the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to make a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys are prone to a beating. They can get tangled in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in hard-to-reach places. It is essential to examine the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they're clear and in good condition. If they're not then the grooves will eventually become worn and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are a couple of different things you can do to aid in removing it. First, try using a spare key to see whether the issue is related to the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.
A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers inside the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop properly and block the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder may help to re-align the tumblers so 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 better to use a tack hammer to knock the key, but be cautious not to strike it too hard.
If you've tried all of these tips and are not able to get rid of your car key, it could be time to consult a professional. A certified locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the car ignition and then remove the key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. However, it is likely to die like all things powered by batteries. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as great as new.
The first step is to locate the correct battery. Start by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a locksmith at your local store which kind of battery it is. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. It is also possible to remove your key fob to locate the battery slot. If so, it is important that you employ a soft tool such as a screwdriver, or even your fingernail for prying open the fob, without causing internal damage.
Place the battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and the negative sides of the batteries are aligned. Otherwise the battery won't be able charge properly. Once the battery is fully charged close the key fob, then snap it back to its original position.
Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. Now it's time to step into your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. In a matter of minutes interruptions in your life will be no problem because you'll be a master in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Check out our blog for more information on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure, we offer affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The final thing you want to occur with your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or even worse, stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can usually be fixed. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, then the only option is to replace it.
The key could be too worn out to engage the lock wafers properly. This could also mean you need an ignition cylinder that is new, or the key.
If the key is still in a position to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned in the right way then you'll need an hammer to flatten it. Be sure to use a soft-faced hammer so as not to damage the lock cylinder or the key. You could also utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into its proper alignment. repair car keys near me could take several tries to get the key back into the right position.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder it means that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't engaging the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. In this case, you will need an entirely new key as soon as possible. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealership you purchased your car from and asking for a VIN-cut key that is identical to your previous key. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying to bend your current key back into shape.