Notes

5 Car Key Repair Lessons From The Pros
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 some technical knowledge or help from an expert.

AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't have chip by choosing the right key blank and using a machine to copy the contours of your existing key. This process usually takes a few minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes a car key can be inoperable at the most inconvenient times - such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk on the way to the gym or heading home after an exhausting day. If the issue is due to an unlocked deadlock or your key fob, it's usually easy to repair. This can save you from having to purchase a brand new car.

The first thing you can try is to replace the battery in your key fob if it's no longer holding a charge anymore. This can often fix the issue particularly if you've been using it for a while, and it's been jostled around a lot. If you're still experiencing issues it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to assist.

Transponder chips can be found in the head of plastic on your key if you own an older model vehicle. These chips are designed to be more efficient anti-theft devices. They emit unique code when your key is inserts into the ignition. The signal is then scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine, or rejects it and prevents your vehicle from getting started.

Based on the model of your vehicle, you may be able to reset the chip by following the instructions in the owner's guide. It may require closing and opening doors, turning on and off lights or electronic devices and pressing a set of buttons in a certain sequence. If you're not able to do this by yourself, you need to know that locksmiths and manufacturers are able to modify the keys at a cost. Some car dealerships are able to perform this task for you, but might require proof of ownership documents and an amount of money.

Cylinder

The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometric shape. It's a form that has two circular bases joined by an elongated surface, which is a fixed distance away from the center. This is referred to as the height of the Cylinder. Examples of real-world cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also used in the manufacture of car engine components.

You might also have to replace the cylinder if your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and it's usually feasible to carry out. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder from the 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 more convenient to let someone else do it.

If your car keys are not entering the ignition or starting the engine, the issue could be due to the cylinder or the battery. Change the battery inside your key fob is one of the first things you should do, and it may solve the issue. Your key fob likely gets frequent use and is jostled around a lot, and sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your vehicle.

This is usually done by a locksmith or your car dealership, based on the model of vehicle you own. If you own an older model car it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and give you an extra key, whereas the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to create a replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, our keys get beaten. They can get lost in purses, pockets and drawers, and they may even be bent in a hard-to-reach location. It is important to check the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they're clean and intact. If they aren't the grooves will eventually wear down, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

If your key is stuck in the ignition there are a couple of alternatives you can take to assist it. Try using a spare to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, move your key in and out of ignition to align it 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 are not aligned. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly, preventing the key from being successfully inserted. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder can aid in re-aligning the tumblers so that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.

Some people suggest tapping the end of the ignition key using the hammer of a small size. This could damage the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. Make use of a tack-hammer instead an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.

If you've tried all of these tips but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to call a professional. A professional locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the car ignition and then remove the key.

Battery

The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, as with all things that rely on batteries, it will eventually die. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob is as good as new.


You'll need to first locate the right battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your vehicle or asking a locksmith at your local store what type of battery they use. Then, purchase a compatible replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is possible to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. If so it, it is essential that you employ a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob without causing any internal damage.

Insert the new battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match to each other. The battery won't be able charge properly if you don't make this a priority. Once the battery is installed, close the key fob and snap it back together.

Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. It's time to hop in your car and enjoy your newly restored key. Before you know it, life's interruptions will be no problem because you'll be a pro at car key battery replacement. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more tips on how to fix your vehicle at home. If you're not ready yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repair services.

Bent Key

The last thing you would want to happen to your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or even worse, to become stuck inside. This type of key is usually repaired. However, if the key is too far in and is unable to be removed with 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 is excessively worn and is not engaging the lock wafers properly. This could also mean you need an ignition cylinder that is new, or the key.

If the key can be inserted in the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned properly, you'll have to flatten it with an hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock's cylinder or key. You can also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back to align. remote key fob repair may take several attempts to get the key in alignment.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it is a sign that the teeth have become excessively worn and are no longer engaging the wafers in the lock correctly. In this instance, you will need to replace your key as quickly as possible. This can be accomplished by taking the stub of your key to the dealership from which you bought your car, and soliciting the VIN cut key that is exactly same as the one you had previously. This is much simpler and less expensive than attempting to change your existing key to get back into shape.

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