Why Your Car Key May Not Turn There are many reasons your car keys won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require a bit more technical knowledge or help from an expert. AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without a chip by using a blank key that matches your existing key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. The process usually takes just minutes. Ignition Socket Sometimes a car key can not work at the most inconvenient times - for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk on the way to the gym, or when you're heading home after an exhausting day. If the problem is due to an unlocked deadlock or your key fob, it's generally easy to solve. This can help you avoid having to buy a new vehicle. The first step is to replace the battery in your key fob in case it's not charging anymore. This is a good solution particularly in the event that your key fob has been jostled a lot. If you're still having trouble making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will help. Transponder chips can be found in the plastic head on your key if you drive a newer car. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code when your key is inserts into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and processed by the immobilizer which either starts and accepts your car's engine or denies it from beginning. Based on the model of your vehicle depending on the model, you might be capable of resetting the chip by following the steps in your owner's manual. It could involve opening and closing doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronics and pressing a number of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships will also do this, but they may require proof of ownership as well as a deposit. Cylinder The cylinder is a basic 3D geometry shape. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface at a fixed distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of automobile engine components. You may also need to replace the cylinder in case your key breaks. This is a simple repair that you can typically do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock at the local auto parts store and then replace it according to the instructions in your owner’s manual. It's not always an easy process and it's better to let someone else take care of it. If your car keys won't turn on the engine or enter the ignition it could be a problem with the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to try changing the battery on your key fob first. This could resolve the problem. Your key fob is likely to see lots of use and is tossed around a lot, so sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car. It is usually carried out by the car dealership or by locksmiths, based on what type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth visiting a local hardware store that specializes in automotive locks or keys. A hardware store can usually cut the standard car key and give you an extra key, whereas the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to create an alternative. Gear Selector Over time, keys may become damaged. They can get tangled in purses, drawers and pockets, and even bent in hard-to-reach places. It is important to check the grooves of your key frequently to ensure they are clean and intact. If not, the grooves of the key will eventually wear away and make it difficult to remove and insert the key. There are a variety of things you can try to free your key from the ignition. Try using a spare key to determine if the issue is with the the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to help it align properly with the internal components. A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers in the cylinder. This could result in the pins failing to drop properly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. You can re-align the tumblers using an oil for locks, or graphite. Some people might suggest tapping the end of the key with the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this could actually damage the key and the cylinder of ignition. It's better to use a tackhammer to knock the key, but be cautious not to hit it too hard. If you've tried all of these methods but you're not able to get rid of your car key, it may be time to consult an expert. A qualified mechanic or locksmith can safely take apart the ignition and remove your key. Battery The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. However, it is likely to die like all things powered by batteries. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as good as new. The first step is to find the right battery. The best place to begin is to read your owner's manual or asking locksmiths about the kind of battery your car utilizes. You can purchase batteries at your local auto parts store or hardware store. It is also possible to disassemble your key fob to locate the battery slot. If so, it is important that you employ a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob without causing any internal damage. Once you have opened the key fob then carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and the negative sides of the batteries are in sync. The battery will not be able to charge properly in the absence of this. Once the battery is fully charged shut off the key fob and snap it back to its original position. Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it towards the vehicle. If everything functions as it should, it's time to hop into your freshly restored car key. In a matter of minutes interruptions to your day will be no problem because you'll be a master in car key battery replacement. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more advice on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you are not ready yet, we can provide affordable keyfob repairs. Bent Key The most undesirable thing that could occur with your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or even worse, stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can usually be fixed. If the key is stuck too far and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, the only option is replacing it. Generally, the problem with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is that it is excessively worn and is not engaging the lock wafers correctly. It may be an indication that you should replace the ignition cylinder or simply purchase a new key. If the key is able to be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, you will need to flatten it out with a hammer. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft so as to not damage the key or lock cylinder. You could also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back to align. It might require several attempts to bring the key back into the proper alignment. If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder it could be that the teeth are excessively worn and aren't engaging the wafers inside the lock in a proper manner. If repair car key is the case, a replacement key will be required as soon as possible. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealership from which you purchased your car and asking for the VIN cut key that is exactly the identical to the old one. This is much easier and less expensive than trying to use your existing key to get back into shape.
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