5 Car Key Repair Projects That Work For Any Budget
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 replace most traditional keys that don't contain a chip by selecting the right key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your existing key. This process usually takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key 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 are heading home from a long workday. If the problem is caused by a deadlock or your key fob, it's typically easy to fix. This could help you avoid needing to purchase a new vehicle.
The first step is replacing the battery in your key fob if it's no longer holding a charge anymore. This is a great solution particularly if your key fob has been tossed around often. If you're still having issues it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to assist.
Transponder chips could be embedded in the head of plastic on your key if you own an older model car. It is designed to be a better anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique number of codes when your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" that either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle, or rejects and prevents it from starting.
Depending on the specific model of your car You may be capable of resetting the chip on your own by following the instructions in your owner's manual. It is possible to open and close doors, switch on and off electronic devices or lights, and press series of buttons in a particular order. If you're unable to accomplish this yourself, it's important to know that locksmiths and the manufacturer can modify the keys at a cost. Some car dealerships are able to perform this task for you, but might require proof of ownership documents and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a basic 3D shape in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases connected with a curved surface, at an exact distance from the center. This is known as the height of a Cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine components.
When a key breaks, you may need to replace the cylinder, too. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and is typically feasible to carry out. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto parts store and follow the instructions in your owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy task and it's more convenient to let someone else do it.
If your car keys are not entering the ignition or starting the engine, it might be with the cylinder or battery. Change the battery on your key fob is one of the first things you should do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob will get a lot used and jostled, so it may require cleaning and reprogrammed.
This is usually handled by locksmiths or your car dealership, depending on the type of car you have. If you have an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting the local hardware store that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store will typically cut a standard car key and supply a spare, while the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or evidence of ownership in order to make an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time keys get beaten. They are tossed around in pockets, purses and drawers, and can even be bent in a difficult-to-access area. It is crucial to check the grooves of your key frequently to ensure they're clear and in good condition. If they aren't, the grooves will eventually get worn down and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key is stuck in the ignition there are options to help it out. First, try using a spare key to see whether the issue is related to the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your key into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key is stuck in the ignition cylinder which could happen when the small tumblers within the cylinder are not aligned. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly, which prevents the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder can help to re-align these tumblers, ensuring that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.
Some people might recommend tapping the end of the key using a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this can cause damage to the key and the cylinder that controls ignition. Make use of a tack-hammer instead the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these suggestions but are still unable to remove your car key, it could be time to consult a professional. A qualified mechanic or locksmith will be able to disassemble the ignition and extract your key.
Battery
The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, just like all things that are powered by batteries - it eventually dies. Luckily, you can replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as excellent as new.
First, you'll need to find the right battery. Start by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle, or asking a local locksmith which type of battery it is. Then, you can purchase the appropriate replacement from a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If you do this, make sure you employ a soft tool such as a screwdriver, or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing internal damage.
Once you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in line. Otherwise, the battery won't be able to charge properly. Once the battery is in place shut off the key fob and snap it back to its original position.
Test out your new key by pressing the button and then pointing it at your vehicle. If everything works according to plan, it's time to hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. Before you know it, life's interruptions will be no problem because you'll be a pro in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more advice on how to fix your vehicle at home. If you're still not ready for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you would want to happen to your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or worse still, stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. However in the event that the key is too deep and can no longer be removed with normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The most common issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become overly worn and is no longer working properly with the lock wafers. This could mean that you need an entirely new ignition cylinder or an ignition 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 with an hammer. Make sure to employ a soft-faced hammer so as not to damage the lock cylinder or the key. You can also make use of the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back to align. g28carkeys might require a few tries to bring the key back into its proper position.
If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are excessively worn and do not engage the wafers correctly. In this situation you'll require to replace your key as quickly as you can. You can do this by taking the key stub back to the dealer you purchased your vehicle from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's identical to the previous key. This is much simpler and less expensive than attempting to change your existing key to get back into shape.