Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons for why your key won't turn. Some are easy fixes, while others require a bit more technical knowledge or help from an expert.
AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't have a chip by selecting a matching key blank and utilizing a machine to copy the contours of your current key. This process typically takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's keys will stop functioning at the worst time. For instance, if you are loading groceries into the trunk or heading to the gym. Or, perhaps, when key fob repairs returning home from a long workday. The good news is that when the problem is caused by your key fob battery or a dead lock it is usually very simple to solve and may 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 when your key fob has been jostled often. If you're still having issues, a quick trip to your local AutoZone can help.
Transponder chips can be found in the plastic head on your key if you drive a more modern car. The idea behind it is to be a more efficient anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code each time the key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then read and processed by the "immobilizer" which either starts and accepts your car's engine or denies it from starting.
You might be able to reset the chip yourself if you follow the instructions in the owner's manual. It could include closing and opening doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronics, and pressing a number of buttons in a specific order. If you're not able to do this on your own, it's important to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram the keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships also do this, but they might require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most basic 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape with two circular bases joined by a curved surface at a set distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine components.
When a key breaks it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder, too. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and is typically feasible to carry out. If you're handy with a toolbox you can buy a new ignition lock at your local auto parts store and replace it according to the instructions in the owner's manual. It's not always an easy task and it's more convenient to let someone else do it.
If your car keys aren't getting into the ignition or turning on the engine, the issue might be with the cylinder or the battery. The battery change on your key fob is one of the first things to do, and it may solve the issue. Your key fob likely gets frequent use and is moved around a lot, which is why it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your vehicle.
It is usually carried out by a car dealership or a locksmith, depending on what type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth visiting a local hardware store that is specialized in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store will usually be capable of cutting a standard key and provide you with a spare. However, the dealer may require your VIN number or proof of ownership in order to create an alternative replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys take a beating. They are tossed around in purses, pockets and drawers, and they can even be bent in a hard-to-reach area. This is why it's important to check the grooves of your key to ensure that they are clean and intact. If they aren't, the grooves will eventually get worn down making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key becomes stuck in the ignition there are a couple of different things you can do to assist it. First, try using an extra key to determine if the problem is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to help it align properly with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key has become jammed in the ignition cylinder which can occur when small tumblers inside of the cylinder are not aligned. This could result in the pins failing to drop properly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. You can align the tumblers with a lock lubricant, or graphite.
Some people might suggest tapping the end of the key with a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this could cause damage to the key and the ignition cylinder. It is better to use a tackhammer to knock the key, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried these suggestions but are still unable remove your car keys, it could be time to consult an expert. A qualified locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the ignition of your car and take out your key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, as with all things that are powered by batteries - it eventually dies. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob is just as good as new.
You'll first need to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your car or asking a locksmith at your local store which type of battery it is. Then, you can purchase a compatible replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may need to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. It is essential to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail, or screwdriver, to pry the fob out without creating 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 up with each other. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge properly. Close the key fob once the battery has been installed.
Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything is working as it should, it's time to hop in and take a look at your newly restored car key. In a matter of minutes interruptions to your day will not be a problem since you'll be a pro at car key battery replacement. Good luck! Follow our blog for more tips on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready to repair your key, we can help with affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you would like to happen to your car key is for it to become bent inside the lock, or even worse, to become stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repairable. If the key is stuck for too long and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.
The key could be too worn out to engage the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you require a new ignition cylinder, or an ignition key.
If the key is still capable of being inserted into the cylinder, but it's not aligned properly then you'll need a hammer to flatten it. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft so as to not damage the lock cylinder or key. Alternatively, you could utilize the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few 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 aren't engaging the wafers inside the lock correctly. If this is the case, a new key will be required immediately. This can be accomplished by taking the key stub to the dealership where you bought your car, and soliciting the VIN cut key that is the exact identical to the old one. This is much easier and less expensive than trying bend your existing key back to form.