The One Car Key Repair Trick Every Person Should Be Able To
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons that your key isn't turning. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys, without chip using a key blank that is identical to your current key. They then use a machine duplicate the contours. The process usually takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient times - for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk, while heading to the gym, or when you're heading home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the problem is due to a key fob battery, or a dead lock it is generally easy to solve and may save you the expense of a costly replacement.
The first step is to replace the battery on your key fob if it's not keeping a charge. This usually solves the issue, especially if you've had it for a while and it's been tossed around frequently. If you still have problems it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone might be able assist.
If you're driving a newer vehicle it may have a transponder chip in the head of your key. These chips are designed to be more efficient in preventing theft. car key repair near me emit a unique code each time your key is inserts into the ignition. This signal is scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and then starts your engine, or rejects it and stops your car from getting started.
Depending on the specific model of your car depending on the model, you might be able to reset the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's guide. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights and press a series of buttons in a certain order. If you're unable to accomplish this yourself, it's important to note that most locksmiths and the manufacturer can reprogram these keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships will also do this, but they might require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is one of the most basic 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape that has two circular bases joined by a curved surface at a set distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in the manufacture of car engine parts.
You may also need to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can typically do yourself. If you are adept with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock at the local auto parts shop and replace it according to the guidelines in the owner's manual. It's not always an easy task and it's better to let someone else handle it.
If your car keys are not entering the ignition or turning on the engine, the problem might be with the cylinder or battery. The battery change inside your key fob is one of the first things to try, and it could solve the issue. Your key fob will be used a lot and tossed around, so it could require cleaning and changed.
This is usually done either by a car dealership or a locksmith, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model car it is worth visiting the local hardware store that specializes in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store should be capable of cutting a standard key and provide you with an additional. However, the dealer may require your VIN number or proof of ownership to be able to make a new replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys are prone to a beating. They can get tangled in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in difficult-to-access places. That's why it's important to regularly inspect the grooves of your key to make sure they're in good shape and clean. If not the grooves on the key will eventually wear out and make it difficult to remove and insert the key.
There are a variety of ways you can free your key from the ignition. Try using a spare key to determine if the problem lies with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is align properly with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key has become stuck in the ignition cylinder that can happen when the tiny tumblers inside of the cylinder do not align. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly and prevent the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that the key can easily come 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. You can use a tack hammer instead of an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.
If you've tried all of these suggestions but are not able to get rid of your car key, it could be time to call a professional. A qualified locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the ignition of your car and take out your key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, it will eventually go out of service, just like everything else powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as good as new.
You'll first need to find the correct battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle, or asking a locksmith at your local store which type of battery they use. Then, purchase an equivalent replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. It is essential to use a soft tool, like a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob apart without damaging the internals.
The battery should be inserted carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line to each other. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge properly. 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 works just as it should then it's time to get in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. Before you know it, life's interruptions will not be a problem since you'll be a master in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Follow our blog for more advice on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you would want to happen to your car key is for it to get bent inside the lock, or worse still, stuck inside. This kind of key can usually be repaired. However, if the key is too far into and cannot be removed using normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
Generally speaking, the issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is the fact that it is excessively worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers correctly. It may also be a sign that you must replace the ignition cylinder, or simply purchase a new key.
If the key is still in a position to be placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned properly then you'll need an hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to prevent damaging the lock cylinder or key. You could also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It may take a few tries to get the key back into the proper alignment.
If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it could be that the teeth have become overly worn and are no longer engaging the wafers inside the lock correctly. If this is the case, a new key will be needed immediately. You can accomplish this by taking the key stub back to the dealership you bought your car from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's identical to the previous key. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying to use the key you have already got back to normal.