What Is The Reason Car Key Repair Is Right For You?
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car key may not turn. Some fixes are simple, while others require more technical knowledge or assistance from a professional.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that don't have chip by choosing an identical key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This service usually takes only minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car key will be inoperable at the most inconvenient times - such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk, on the way to the gym, or when you're heading home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the issue is caused by 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 step is to replace the battery on your key fob if it's no longer keeping a charge. This is a great solution particularly when your key fob is smashed a lot. If you're still having issues then a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to help.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle, it might contain a transponder in the head of your key. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code when your key is was inserted into the ignition. This signal is then read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and then starts your engine or rejects it and stops your vehicle from getting started.
Depending on your specific car You may be able to reset the chip by following the steps in your owner's manual. It could involve opening and closing doors or turning off lights or electronics and pressing a number of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships are able to do this for you but might require proof of ownership papers and a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape with two circular bases connected by a curved surface at a fixed distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls and cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine parts.
You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key is damaged. It's a fairly inexpensive repair, and is typically feasible to carry out. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto parts store and follow the steps in your owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy process and it's better to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys do not turn on the engine or enter the ignition, it could be a problem with the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to change 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 usually handled by locksmiths or your vehicle dealer, based on the model of car you have. If you have an older model, you should consider trying a local hardware store that specializes in automotive locks or keys. A hardware store can usually cut a standard car key and supply an alternative, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or evidence of ownership in order to make a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can become damaged. They get jumbled around in purses, pockets and drawers, and they could even be bent in a hard-to-reach location. This is why it's important to check the grooves on your key to make sure they are clean and intact. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear out making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
There are many things you can try to free your key from the ignition. First try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.
A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder may be caused by misaligned small tumblers in the cylinder. This can result in the pins failing to drop correctly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. You can re-align the tumblers using a lock lubricant, or graphite.
Some recommend that you tap the end of the ignition key using an hammer that is small. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder as well as the key. Make use of a tack-hammer instead an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.
If you've tried these suggestions but are still unable to remove your car key, it might be time to call an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able safely disassemble the car ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a handy tool that makes it easy to lock and 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 good as new.
First, you'll need locate the correct battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle or asking a locksmith in your area what type of battery they use. Then, buy a compatible replacement at the local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may also have to take apart your key fob to locate the battery slot. If so this, make sure you employ a soft tool such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob without causing internal damage.
Once you have opened the key fob and inserted the new battery into the slot. Make sure the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. The battery will not be able charge properly in the absence of this. Once image source is in place shut off the key fob, then snap it back together.
Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything functions according to plan you can hop in and take a look at your newly restored car key. In no time, life's interruptions will be no problem because you'll be an expert in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more advice on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're not prepared yet, we can help you with low-cost keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The final thing you want to happen to your car key is that it gets bent in the lock, or worse, it gets stuck inside. This type of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.
Generally speaking, the issue with a key getting stuck in the ignition is that it has become overly worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers properly. This could mean that you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or the key.
If the key can be inserted into the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned properly, then you'll have to flatten it out using a hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or key. You could also make use of the flat end on needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It may require a few tries to get the key back into the proper alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder it means that the teeth have become excessively worn and are not engaging the wafers inside the lock in a proper manner. If this is the case, a replacement key will be required immediately. You can accomplish this by taking the key stub back to the dealership you bought your vehicle from and requesting a VIN-cut key that is identical to the old key. This is much easier and cheaper than trying the key you have already got back to normal.