Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are a variety of reasons for why your key won't turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical expertise or professional help.

AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without chip using a key blank that matches your existing key. They then use a machine duplicate the contours. This process usually takes a few minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's 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 heading home after a long day. If the issue is caused by a deadlock or your key fob, it's usually simple to repair. This could save you from needing to purchase a new car.

The first thing you can try is to replace the battery on your key fob if it's no longer keeping a charge. This is a good solution, especially if your key fob is smashed often. If you're still having issues taking a trip to your local AutoZone could help.

If you're driving a newer vehicle, it might contain a transponder chip inside the head of your plastic key. https://penzu.com/p/47285b60640e093b are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code each time your key is was inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer", which either accepts and starts your car's engine or denies it from beginning.

You may be able reset the chip on your own by following the instructions in the owner's manual. It could involve closing and opening doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronics and pressing a set of buttons in a specific sequence. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships can also do this for you but might require proof of ownership documents and an amount of money.

Cylinder

The cylinder is one of the most basic 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape with two circular bases connected with an elongated surface, which is an undefined distance from the center. This is called the height of the cylinder. Toilet rolls as well as cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine components.

If a key fails, you may need to replace the cylinder, too. 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 cylinder from your local auto parts store and follow the steps in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always a simple process, and it's often easier to let a professional do it for you.

If your car keys won't start the engine or go into the ignition it could be due to an issue with the cylinder or battery. Change the battery on your key fob is one of the first things you should try, and it could solve the issue. The key fob you have is likely to get frequent use and is jostled around a lot, so it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your vehicle.

This is typically done by a car dealership or a locksmith, based on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model vehicle It is recommended to visit a local hardware shop that specializes in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store will typically cut the standard car key and supply an alternative, while the dealer will require 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 pockets, purses and drawers, and they can even be bent in a difficult-to-access place. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves of your key to ensure they're clean and in good condition. If they aren't, the grooves will eventually get worn down and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.

If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are a couple of alternatives you can take to aid in removing it. First, try using a spare key to see whether the issue is related to the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to allow it to align properly with the internal components.

Another possibility is that the key has become stuck in the ignition cylinder, which could happen when the small tumblers inside the cylinder misalign. This could cause the pins to not drop properly, which prevents the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder may aid in re-aligning these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Finally, some people may recommend tapping the end of the key using the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this can actually damage the key and the ignition cylinder. Use a tack-hammer instead of a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.

If you've tried these tips and are not able to get rid of your car key, it may be time to contact a professional. A qualified mechanic or locksmith will be able to disassemble the ignition and extract your key.

Battery

The car key fob is a useful tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, just like all things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually die. You can replace the batteries yourself and your key fob is like new.

The first step is to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your car or asking a local locksmith which kind of battery it uses. Then, purchase an equivalent replacement at the local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may have to take apart your key fob to find the battery slot. It is important to use a soft tool, such as a fingernail, or screwdriver to open the fob open without causing internal damage.

Place the 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. Otherwise the battery won't be able to charge correctly. Once the battery is in place close the key fob and then snap it back together.

Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. It's time to step into your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be an expert at replacing the car key battery. Good luck! Check out our blog for more information on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure, we offer affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you want to occur with your car key is for it to become bent inside the lock or worse, it gets stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repairable. However in the event that the key is too far in and can no longer be removed with normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.

Generally, the problem with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become overly worn and isn't engaging the lock wafers properly. This could also mean you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or the key.

If the key is capable of being placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned properly it will require an hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to ensure that you don't damage the lock's cylinder or key. Alternately, you can utilize the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may require a few tries to bring the key back in 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 connecting the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. In this case, you will need an entirely new key as soon as you can. You can accomplish this by taking the key stub back to the dealership you purchased your car from and asking for a VIN-cut key that is identical to the old key. This is much easier and cheaper than trying to bend the key you have already got to form.