10 Car Key Repair Tricks Experts Recommend
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 a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys, without chip by using a blank key that matches your existing key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. The process typically takes a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient time. For example, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or heading to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you're returning back home after a long working day. The good news is that when the problem is due to a key fob battery or a dead lock, it's usually very simple to fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.
If your key fob is not holding a charge The first thing to do is replace the battery. This is a great solution particularly if your key fob has been tossed around a lot. If you're still struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone could assist.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, it could contain a transponder in the head of your plastic key. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique codes when your key inserts into the ignition. The signal is then read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins the engine or denies it and stops your car from starting.
Depending on your specific car depending on the model, you might be capable of resetting the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's guide. It may require closing and opening doors or turning off lights or electronics and pressing a series of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships can perform this, however they might require proof of ownership and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometric shape. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved surface that is an exact distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine components.
If a key is damaged, you may need to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can typically do yourself. If you are handy with a toolbox you can purchase a new ignition lock from your local auto parts store and then replace it according to the guidelines in your owner’s manual. It's not always an easy process and it's more convenient to let someone else do it.
If your car keys won't start the engine or turn on the ignition it could be due to an issue with the cylinder or battery. It is an ideal idea to test changing the battery of your key fob first. This could fix the problem. Your key fob likely gets lots of use and is tossed around a lot, so sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed to the car.
This is usually done either by the car dealership or by locksmiths, based on the kind of vehicle you have. If you have an older model, you should consider trying a local hardware store that is specialized in keys or locks for automobiles. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and provide an alternative, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to create an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can become damaged. They are tossed around in pockets, purses and drawers, and they can even be bent in an impossible-to-access area. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves on your key to make sure they are clean and intact. If they aren't, the grooves of the key will eventually wear out and make it difficult to remove and insert the key.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition, there are a few different things you can do to aid in removing it. First try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your key into and out of the 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 of the cylinder do not align. This could cause the pins to fall off incorrectly, which prevents the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder may aid in re-aligning these tumblers, ensuring that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition.
Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key using an hammer that is small. This could cause damage to the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these suggestions but are still unable to get rid of your car key, it could be time to contact an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to remove the ignition and retrieve your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a useful tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, broken key repair near me will eventually end up dying just like other devices powered by batteries. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as good as new.
First, you'll need to locate the right battery. The best place to begin is to read your owner's manual or talking to an expert locksmith for the type of battery your vehicle uses. Then, buy an equivalent replacement at the local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may also have to remove your key fob to locate the battery slot. It is important to employ a soft tool, such as a fingernail or screwdriver to force the fob open without causing internal damage.
After 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 with each other. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge correctly. Close the key fob once the battery has been installed.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. It's now time to step into your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. Before you know it, life's interruptions will be no problem because you'll be an expert in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Follow our blog for more advice on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not ready yet, we can provide low-cost keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The most undesirable thing that could happen with your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. Luckily, this kind of key is usually fixed. If the key is stuck too far and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
Generally, the problem with a key getting stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become overly worn and is no longer engaging the lock wafers properly. This could also mean you need an ignition cylinder that is new, or a key.
If the key is able to be inserted in the cylinder and turned, but isn't aligned correctly, then you'll have to flatten it with an hammer. Make sure to use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You can also utilize the flat end of pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back to align. It could take several tries to get the key in the right position.
If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it means that the teeth have become overly worn and are not engaging the wafers in the lock correctly. If this is the case, a new key will be required as soon as possible. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealer where you purchased your car and soliciting an VIN cut key that is exactly the identical to the old one. This is much easier and less expensive than trying to bend your existing key back to form.