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Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are a variety of reasons for why your key won't turn. Some are easy fixes, while others require a bit more technical knowledge or help from an expert.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that do not have chips by choosing an identical key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This process usually takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will be inoperable at the most inconvenient times - like when you're loading groceries into your trunk, on the way to the gym or home after an exhausting day. The good news is that when the problem is due to a key fob battery, or a dead lock it is typically a simple fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.

The first thing to try is to replace the battery in your key fob if it's not holding a charge anymore. This is a good solution, especially if your key fob is smashed frequently. If you're still having issues it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to help.

If you're driving a brand newer vehicle it may contain a transponder in the head of your plastic key. The idea behind it is to be a more efficient anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code when your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" which either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle or denies it from starting.

Based on the model of your vehicle key repairs depending on the model, you might be able to reset the chip by following the steps in the owner's manual. It could include opening and closing doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronics, and pressing a series of buttons in a specific sequence. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to modify your keys if you are unable to do it yourself. Some car dealerships will assist you in this process, but they may require proof of ownership and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is among the most basic 3D geometric shapes. It's a shape that has two circular bases joined by a curved surface that is a set distance from the center, referred to as the height of the 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.

It is also possible to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and it's usually possible to do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto parts store and follow the directions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. But, it's not always an easy task and it's usually better to have a professional take care of it for you.

If your car keys won't turn on the engine or enter the ignition it could be an issue with the battery or cylinder. Changing the battery in your key fob is one of the first things to try, and it might solve the issue. Your key fob is bound to get a lot used and tossed around, so it could need to be cleaned and reset.

It is usually carried out by the broken car key repair dealership or by a locksmith, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth trying a local hardware store that specializes in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store can usually cut a standard car key and provide a spare, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to create an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time keys are prone to a beating. They can be jumbled in purses, drawers and pockets, and bent in hard-to-reach places. It is important to check the grooves on your key regularly to ensure that they are well-maintained and clean. If they aren't the grooves will eventually get worn down making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are several ways you can free your key from the ignition. First try using a spare key to see whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to help it properly align with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key has become jammed in the ignition cylinder, that can happen when the tiny tumblers inside the cylinder misalign. This can cause the pins not to drop properly, preventing the key from being inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock and key repair near me lubricant or graphite powder could aid in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Finally, some people may recommend tapping the end of the key using an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this could cause damage to the key and the ignition cylinder. It is safer to use a tack hammer to knock the key fob repairs near me down, but be careful not to strike it too hard.

If you have tried these suggestions but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it might be time to consult an expert. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified will be able to disassemble the ignition and extract your key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it simple to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, it will eventually end up dying just like other devices powered by batteries. You can replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob is as good as new.

The first step is to locate the correct battery. Start by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a local locksmith which kind of battery it is. You can buy an alternative battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may also have to take apart the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to employ a soft tool, such as a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob open without damaging the internals.

Once you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line up. The battery won't be able to charge properly if you don't make this a priority. Once the battery is installed, close the key fob, then snap it back to its original position.

Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything functions as it should, it's time to hop in and take a look at 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! And be sure to follow our blog for more advice on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're not quite ready to repair your key, we can help with affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The most undesirable thing that could happen to your car key is that it gets bent inside the lock or worse, it gets stuck inside. Luckily, this kind of key is usually repaired. However in the event that the key is too deep and can no longer be removed using normal twisting, the only solution is to replace it.

Generally, the problem with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is that it is excessively worn and is no longer engaging the lock wafers properly. It could also be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder, or simply purchase a new key.

If the key is able to be inserted in the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll need to flatten it out with a Hammer. Make sure you use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You could also utilize the flat end of needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few tries to get the key into 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 in the lock in a proper manner. In this situation you'll need an entirely new key as soon as you can. You can do this by taking the stub of your key back to the dealership where you bought your car from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to the previous key. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying to bend your current key back to form.