What Is The Reason Car Key Repair Is The Right Choice For You?
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your car key won't turn. Some are simple fixes while others require a bit more technical expertise or assistance 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 a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key will stop working at the worst possible moment. For instance, if you are putting groceries in the trunk or on your way to the gym. Or even when you are heading back home after a long working day. The good news is that if the issue is due to your key fob battery or dead lock it is generally easy to fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.
The first step is to replace the battery on your key fob in case it's not keeping a charge. This usually solves the issue particularly if you've had it for a while, and it's been tossed around frequently. If you're still having issues taking a trip to your local AutoZone will aid.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, it might have a transponder chip in the head of your plastic key. These chips are designed to be more efficient in preventing theft. They emit unique code each time your key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" which either accepts and starts the engine of your vehicle or blocks it from beginning.
Based on the model of your vehicle, you may be capable of resetting the chip on your own by following the steps in your owner's manual. It may require closing and opening doors, turning on and off lights or electronics and pressing a number of buttons in a certain order. If you're unable to do this yourself, it's important to know that locksmiths and the manufacturer can reprogram these keys for a fee. Some car dealerships can also do this for you but may require proof of ownership documents and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is one of the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by an elongated surface, which is an undefined distance from the center. This is referred to as the height of a cylinder. Toilet rolls and cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in the manufacture of car engine parts.
When a key breaks it is possible to replace the cylinder as well. This is a simple repair that you can usually do 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 steps in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy task and it's better to let someone else do it.
If your car keys aren't entering the ignition or starting the engine, the issue could be due to the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to try changing the battery on your key fob first. This could fix the issue. Your key fob likely gets frequent use and is moved around a lot, and often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your car.
This is usually performed by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth visiting a local hardware store that is specialized in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store should be capable of cutting an ordinary key and provide you with an additional. However, the dealer may require your VIN number or proof ownership to be able to make the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys take a beating. They may get lost in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in places that are difficult to reach. That's why it's important to check the grooves of your key to ensure that they're in good shape and clean. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear away making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
If your key becomes stuck in the ignition, there are a few alternatives you can take to help it out. First, try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your keys into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.
car key repairs near me of the key in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misaligned small tumblers inside the cylinder. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly, which prevents the key from being removed or inserted successfully. You can re-align the tumblers using a lock lubricant, or graphite.
Some recommend that you tap the end of the ignition key with a small hammer. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder as well as the key. It is safer to employ a tack hammer to knock the key down, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all of these methods but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it could be time to call an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the car ignition and take out your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a handy tool that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle. 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 good as new.
First, you'll need to locate the right battery. The best place to begin is by reading your owner's manual or asking an expert locksmith for the type of battery that your vehicle uses. You can purchase batteries at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may need to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is important to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob open without creating internal damage.
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 match up. The battery will not be able to charge properly in the absence of this. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.
Test out your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at the vehicle. If everything works just as it should, it's time to hop in and take a look at your newly restored car key. In a matter of minutes, life's interruptions won't be an issue because you'll be an expert in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Follow our blog for more tips on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not prepared yet, we can provide affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to happen with your car key is that it gets bent in the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can be fixed. However when the key is too deep and can no longer be removed using normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.
The most common issue with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become overly worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers properly. It may be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder, or just purchase a new one.
If the key is still able to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned correctly, you will need an hammer to flatten the key. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer to avoid damaging the lock's cylinder or key. You could also make use of the flat end on needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It could take several tries to get the key back into the proper alignment.
If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are overly worn and do not properly engage the wafers. If this is the case, a new key will be needed immediately. This can be done by taking the stub of your key to the dealership where you bought your car, and asking for a VIN cut key that is the exact same as your old one. This is a lot easier and less expensive than attempting to change your existing key to get back to normal.