5 Car Key Repair Projects For Every Budget
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons your car key may not turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical expertise or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without a chip by using a blank key that matches your existing key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. This service typically only takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key will stop working at the worst possible time. For instance, if you are loading groceries into the trunk or rushing to the gym. Even when you are heading home after a long day at work. The good news is that when the problem is due to a key fob battery or dead lock, it's generally easy to fix and could save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
If your key fob isn't holding a charge, the first thing you should do is replace the battery. This usually solves the issue, especially if you've had it for a while, and it's been jostled around a lot. If you're still experiencing issues then a visit to your local AutoZone could be able to help.
Transponder chips can be found in the head of plastic on your key if driving an older model car. The idea behind it is to be a more efficient anti-theft device they emit a unique code when the key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine, or rejects it and stops your car from starting.
It is possible to reset the chip yourself if you follow the instructions in the owner's manual. It may involve closing and opening doors, turning on and off lights or electronics and pressing a number of buttons in a specific order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to modify your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships will also do this, but they may require proof of ownership and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometric shape. It's a form with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface at a fixed distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Examples of real-world cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of automobile engine parts.
You might also have to replace the cylinder in case your key fails. It's a fairly inexpensive repair, and is typically feasible to perform it yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto parts store and follow the directions in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always a simple process and it's easier to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys won't turn on the engine or enter the ignition it could be due to an issue with the battery or cylinder. Change the battery inside your key fob is one of the first things you should do, and it may solve the issue. Your key fob will be used a lot and tossed around, so it could require cleaning and changed.
This is typically done by a car dealership or locksmiths, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that is specialized in automotive locks or keys. The hardware store will typically be able to cut the standard key and supply you with an extra. However the dealer might require the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to be able to make a new replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys may be damaged. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses, and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. It is important to check the grooves of your key frequently to ensure that they are well-maintained and clean. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear out, making it difficult to insert and remove the key.
There are several ways you can get your key off the ignition. Try using a spare to determine if the problem lies with the key or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to help it align properly with the internal components.
A key jamming in the ignition cylinder may be caused by misalignment of small tumblers in the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop properly, which prevents the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning the tumblers so that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
In addition, some may recommend tapping the end of the key using the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this can actually damage the key and the cylinder of ignition. key fob repair near me to use a tack hammer to knock the key, however, be careful not to strike it too hard.
If you have tried all of these methods but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it might be time to consult an expert. A qualified locksmith or mechanic will be able securely disassemble your car ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, as with all things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually die. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself and your key fob is like new.
First, you'll need to find the right battery. The best place to begin is to read your owner's manual or asking locksmiths about the kind of battery your car uses. You can buy batteries at your local auto parts or hardware store. It is also possible to remove your key fob to locate the battery slot. If you do, it is important that you make use of a soft tool, like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob, without causing internal damage.
Once 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 line up with each other. Otherwise, the battery won't be able to charge correctly. Once the battery is installed shut off the key fob, then snap it back to its original position.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything is working just as it should then it's time to get into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be a pro in replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! Check out our blog for more advice on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready, we offer affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you would like to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. Luckily, this kind of key can usually be fixed. If the key is stuck too far and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, then the only option is to replace it.
The key could be too worn out to connect the lock wafers in a proper. This could mean that you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or the key.
If the key is able to be inserted in the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned correctly, then you will need to flatten it out using an Hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or the key. You can also make use of the flat end on needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back to align. It could take several tries to get the key back into the right position.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it means that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't connecting the wafers in the lock properly. If this is the case, a new key is required as soon as possible. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealer where you purchased your car and request an VIN cut key that is exactly same as your old one. This is much easier and cheaper than trying your current key to get back in shape.