Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons why your car key may not turn. Some are easy fixes, while others require some technical knowledge or help from an expert.

AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't have a chip by selecting a matching key blank and utilizing a machine to copy the contours of your existing key. This service typically only takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a remote car key repair's key will stop working at the most unavoidable times - like when you're loading groceries into your trunk while heading to the gym or heading home after an exhausting day. The good news is that if the issue is due to your key fob battery or dead lock, it's usually very simple to fix and could save you the cost of an expensive replacement.

The first step is to replace the battery on your key fob in case it's not keeping a charge. This is a viable option particularly when your key fob is smashed often. If you're still having trouble, a quick trip to your local AutoZone can aid.

Transponder chips can be found in the plastic head on your key if you drive a more modern car. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique codes when your key inserted in the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" that either accepts and starts your car's engine, or rejects and prevents it from beginning.

Depending on the specific model of your broken car key repair, you may be able to reset the chip by following the instructions in the owner's manual. It is possible to open and close doors, switch on and off electronic devices or lights and press a series of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to modify your keys if you are unable to do it yourself. Some car dealerships are able to assist you in this process, but they might require proof of ownership documents and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a fundamental 3D shape in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases joined by a curved area at an exact distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of automobile engine components.

When a key breaks it is possible to replace the cylinder as well. 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 from the local auto parts store and replace it according to the instructions in your owner’s manual. It's not always a simple process and it's better to let someone else take care of it.

If your car keys are not entering the ignition or starting the engine, it could be due to the cylinder or battery. It is a good idea to try changing the battery on your key fob first. This could resolve the problem. Your key fob likely gets frequent use and is jostled around a lot, and sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the crely disassemble your car ignition and take out your key.

Battery

The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, like most things that rely on batteries, it will eventually die. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob is just 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 talking to an expert locksmith for the type of battery your car utilizes. You can purchase an alternative battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may need to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. If you do this, make sure you employ a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob, without causing internal damage.

Once you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line to each other. The battery won't be able to charge properly in the absence of this. Once the battery is in place close the key fob, then snap it back to its original position.

Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything works according to plan, it's time to hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. You'll soon be an expert in replacing the car key battery. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more tips on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're not quite ready for a key replacement, we provide 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 even worse, gets stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, then the only option is to replace it.

Generally speaking, the issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is the fact that it is excessively worn and is not working properly with the lock wafers. This could also mean that you require a new ignition cylinder, or the key.

If the key is able to be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, then you'll need to flatten it with a Hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or key. You can also utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It might take a few attempts to get the key back into the proper alignment.

If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, it means that the teeth are terribly worn and do not properly engage the wafers. If this is the case, a new key will be required as soon as possible. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealer you purchased your vehicle from and asking for a VIN-cut key that is identical to your previous key. This is much easier and less expensive than attempting to change your existing key to get back in shape.