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Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many possible reasons for why your key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require a bit more technical knowledge or help from a professional.

AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that don't contain a chip by selecting the right key blank and using machines to replicate the contours of your current key. This service typically only takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For example, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or heading to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you are heading home after a long day at work. If the issue is due to a deadlock or your key fob, it's typically simple to fix. This can save you from having to buy a new vehicle.

If your key fob is not holding a charge, the first thing to do is replace the battery. This can often fix the issue, especially if you've had it for a while and has been tossed around a lot. If you're still struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone could help.

Transponder chips could be embedded inside the head of plastic on your key if driving a more modern vehicle. These chips are designed to be more efficient in preventing theft. They emit unique code each time your key is inserts into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer", which either accepts and starts your car's engine or blocks it from starting.

You may be able reset the chip by yourself by following the instructions in the owner's manual. It may involve closing and opening doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronics and pressing a series of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to modify your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships also perform this, however they may require proof of ownership as well as an amount of money.

Cylinder

The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a form with two circular bases joined by a curved surface that is a fixed distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of automobile engine components.

You might also have to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. This is an inexpensive repair that you can usually do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto part store and follow the steps in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always a simple process and is often better to let a professional handle it for you.

If your car keys are not getting into the ignition or starting the engine, it might be with the cylinder or the battery. The battery change on your key fob is among the first things to try, and it could fix the problem. Your key fob likely gets lots of use and is tossed around a lot, so it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your car key repairs.

This is usually done by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, based on the kind of car you have. If you have an older model, it's worth trying a local hardware store that has a specialization in keys for automotive locks. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and provide an alternative, while the dealer will require your vehicle's VIN number or evidence of ownership in order to make a replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time keys take a beating. They are tossed around in pockets, purses and drawers, and could even be bent in a difficult-to-access location. It is crucial to check the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they're clear and in good condition. If they're not then the grooves will eventually become worn, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are many things you can try to free your key from the ignition. First try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is related to the key itself 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 is jammed in the ignition cylinder that can happen when the tiny tumblers inside the cylinder misalign. This could cause the pins to fall off incorrectly and prevent the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder could assist in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.

Some people suggest tapping the end of the ignition key using an hammer that is small. This could damage the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. It's better to employ a tack hammer to knock the key, but be cautious not to hit it too hard.

If you've tried these suggestions but are not able to get rid of your car key, it may be time to call an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able safely disassemble the car ignition and then remove the key.

Battery

The car key fob is an excellent tool that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, as with all things that are powered by batteries - it will eventually die. Luckily, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as good as new.

The first step is to find the right battery. Start by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle, or asking a local locksmith what type of battery it is. Then, you can purchase the appropriate replacement from a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is also possible to take apart your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If you do it, it is essential that you make use of a soft tool, such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing any internal damage.

Insert the new battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line up. Otherwise, the battery won't be able charge correctly. Close the key fob after the battery has been installed.

Test the new key by pressing the button and then pointing it towards the vehicle. If everything functions just as it should you can hop into your freshly restored car keys repairs key. Before you know it interruptions to your day will be no problem because you'll be an expert in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more advice on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready for a key replacement, we provide affordable remote key repairs fob replacements.

Bent Key

The last thing you would like to happen to your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. However, if the key is too deep and is unable to be removed with normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.

The key could be worn out and unable to connect the lock wafers in a proper. This could mean that you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or an ignition key.

If the key is still capable of being inserted into the cylinder, but it's not aligned in the right way then you'll need an hammer to flatten the key. Make sure to use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or key. Alternately, you can make use of the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It might require several attempts to get 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 have become overly worn and aren't connecting the wafers in the lock properly. If this is the case, a replacement key will be required as soon as possible. This can be accomplished by taking the key stub to the dealership where you bought your car key repair service and soliciting the VIN cut key that is exactly same as the one you had previously. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying bend the key you have already got into shape.