8 Tips To Up Your Car Key Repair Game
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your car key won't turn. Some are easy fixes, while others require more technical knowledge or help from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without a chip using a key blank that is a match to your existing key. They then use a machine duplicate the contours. The process typically takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes a car key can be inoperable at the most inconvenient times - like when you're loading groceries into your trunk on your way to the gym or heading home after an exhausting day. If the problem is caused by a deadlock or your key fob, it's usually simple to repair. This can save you from needing to purchase a new car.
If your key fob isn't keeping a charge, the first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This is a good solution, especially if your key fob is smashed a lot. If you're still having trouble taking a trip to your local AutoZone will assist.
If you're driving a newer vehicle it may have a transponder chip in the plastic head of your key. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when your key is put into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer", which either accepts and starts the engine of your vehicle, or rejects and prevents it from beginning.
You may be able reset the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual. It may involve opening and closing doors, turning on and off lights or electronics, and pressing a set of buttons in a particular sequence. If you're unable to accomplish this yourself, it's important to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram these keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships also perform this, however they may require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a basic 3D shape in geometry. 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 rolls as well as cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in many car engine parts.
You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key breaks. This is a simple repair that you can typically do yourself. If you are skilled with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock from the local auto parts shop and replace it according to the guidelines in your owner’s manual. However, it's not always an easy task and is often better to have a professional take care of it for you.
If your car keys do not start the engine or go into the ignition, it could be an issue with the cylinder or battery. The battery change inside your key fob is among the first things you need to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to see a lot of use and is jostled around a lot, which is why often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car.
This is usually done either by a car dealership or a locksmith, depending on what type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model car it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that specializes in automotive keys or locks. The hardware store will typically be capable of cutting the standard key and supply you with an extra. However, the dealer may require your VIN number or proof of ownership in order to design a new replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys are prone to a beating. They are tossed around in purses, pockets and drawers, and they may even be bent in an impossible-to-access location. It is crucial to check the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure that they are well-maintained and clean. If they're not, the grooves will eventually wear down and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.
There are several things you can try to remove your key from the ignition. First try using a spare key to see whether the issue is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is properly align with the internal components.
A key jamming in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of small tumblers within the cylinder. car remote key repair could result in the pins failing to drop correctly, which can prevent the key from being inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning these tumblers, so keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
Finally, some people may suggest tapping the edge of the key with the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this can actually damage the key and the cylinder that controls ignition. It's better to use a tack hammer to knock the key, but be cautious not to strike it too hard.
If you've tried 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 safely disassemble the ignition and extract your key.
Battery
The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, it will eventually go out of service, just like everything else that are powered by batteries. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as good as new.
First, you'll need find the right battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle, or asking a locksmith in your area what type of battery it is. Then, purchase an equivalent replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob open without causing internal damage.
Place the battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line to each other. The battery will not be able charge properly if you don't make this a priority. Close the key fob once the battery has been installed.
Test out your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at your vehicle. If everything is working as it should, it's time to hop into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert in changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Check out our blog for more tips on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not ready yet, we offer affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to occur with your car key is for it to become bent in the lock, or even worse, gets stuck inside. Luckily, this kind of key can usually be fixed. However when the key is too far in and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
Generally speaking, the issue with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is that it has become overly worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or a key.
If the key can still be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, then you'll need to flatten it out with an Hammer. Be sure to use a hammer that is soft so as to not damage the lock cylinder or the key. You could also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It could take several tries to get the key into the right position.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it means that the teeth have become excessively worn and are no longer engaging the wafers inside the lock in a proper manner. In this case, you will need an entirely new key as soon as possible. This can be done by taking the stub of your key to the dealership where you bought your car, and soliciting an VIN cut key that is exactly the identical to the old one. This is much easier and less expensive than attempting to change the key you have already got back to normal.