Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a myriad of possible reasons why your key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require a bit more technical expertise or assistance from a professional.
remote key fob repair are able to replace traditional keys without chip using a key blank that matches your existing key. They then utilize a machine to duplicate the contours. The process typically takes a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the worst possible moment. For example, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you're heading home from a long workday. The good news is that if the issue is due to a key fob battery or dead lock it is usually very simple to fix and could save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
If your key fob is not holding a charge The first thing to do is replace the battery. This can often fix the issue particularly if you've had it for a while and has been tossed around frequently. If car remote key repair struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone could aid.
Transponder chips could be embedded inside the head of plastic on your key if you own a more modern vehicle. Designed to be a better anti-theft device they emit a unique code when your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" that either accepts and starts the engine of your vehicle or denies it from beginning.
Based on the model of your vehicle, you may be in a position to reset the chip by following the instructions in your owner's manual. It may include closing and opening doors, turning on and off lights or electronics and pressing a set of buttons in a particular order. If you're not able to do this yourself, it's important to know that locksmiths and the manufacturer can reprogram these keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships can also do this for you but may require proof of ownership papers and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometric shape. It's a shape that has two circular bases that are connected by an elongated surface, which is a fixed distance away from the center. This is referred to as the height of a cylindrical. Toilet rolls and 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 parts.
It is also possible to replace the cylinder in case your key breaks. It's a fairly inexpensive repair that is usually feasible to carry out. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock at your local auto parts store and replace it according to the guidelines in your owner’s manual. But, it's not always an easy task, and it's often easier to let a professional handle it for you.
If your car keys don't turn on the engine or go into the ignition it could be due to an issue with the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to try changing the battery in your key fob first. This could resolve the problem. Your key fob is likely to see lots of use and is jostled around a lot, and sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your vehicle.
This is typically done by an auto dealership or locksmiths, based on the kind of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, you should consider looking for a local hardware shop that is specialized in keys for automotive locks. The hardware store will typically be capable of cutting an ordinary key and provide you with a spare. However the dealer might need the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership in order to create a new replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can be damaged. They can be jumbled in purses, drawers and pockets, or bent in places that are difficult to reach. It is important to check the grooves of your key frequently to ensure they're well-maintained and clean. If not the grooves of the key will eventually wear out, making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
If your key is stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to help it out. Try using a spare to determine if the problem lies with the the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to ensure that it is align properly with the internal components.
A key jamming inside the ignition cylinder may be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins to fall off incorrectly and prevent the key from being removed or inserted successfully. You can align the tumblers with a lock lubricant, or graphite.
Some recommend that you tap the end of the ignition key with an hammer that is small. This could damage the ignition cylinder as well as the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these tips and are still unable to get rid of your car key, it might be time to contact an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic can safely take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a useful tool that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, it will eventually end up dying just like other devices powered by batteries. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself and your key fob is just 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 talking to a locksmith about the type of battery that your vehicle utilizes. Then, buy an equivalent replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is possible to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so it, it is essential that you employ a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob, without causing internal damage.
Once you have opened the key fob then carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match up. Otherwise, the battery won't be able charge correctly. Once the battery is in place shut off the key fob, then snap it back together.
Test the new key by pressing the button and pointing it at your vehicle. If everything works just as it should, it's time to hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. You'll soon be an expert at changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Check out our blog for more information on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not ready yet, we offer affordable keyfob repair services.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to happen to your car key is for it to become bent in the lock, or even worse, stuck inside. This type of key can usually be repaired. However in the event that the key is too far in and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option 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 is no longer engaging the lock wafers correctly. It may be an indication that you need to replace the ignition cylinder or just purchase a new one.
If the key is able to be inserted in the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, then you'll have to flatten it out with an hammer. Be sure to use a soft-faced hammer so as not to damage the lock cylinder or key. You can also make use of the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into alignment. It might require a few tries to get the key back into its proper position.
If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are terribly worn and do not effectively engage the wafers. If this is the case, a new key will be needed as soon as is possible. You can do this by taking the key stub back to the dealership you bought your vehicle from and requesting a VIN-cut key that is identical to the old key. This is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend your existing key back to form.