This Is The One Car Key Repair Trick Every Person Should Know
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many possible reasons why your key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require more technical knowledge or help from an expert.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that don't have chips by choosing the right key blank and utilizing a machine to copy the contours of your existing key. The process typically takes minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes a car key can stop working at the most unavoidable times - such as when you're loading groceries into your trunk, while heading to the gym or heading home after a long day. If the issue is due to a deadlock or your key fob, it's usually easy to repair. This could save you from having to purchase a brand new car.
The first thing you can try is replacing the battery in your key fob in case it's not holding a charge anymore. This is a great solution particularly if your key fob has been tossed around frequently. If you're still having issues making a quick visit to your local AutoZone can aid.
If you're driving a more modern vehicle, it could contain a transponder chip inside the head of your plastic key. These chips are designed to be more efficient anti-theft devices. They emit a unique codes when your key inserted in the ignition. This signal is then read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and then starts the engine or denies it and stops your car from starting.
Based on the model of your vehicle, you may be in a position to reset the chip yourself by following the directions in your owner's manual. It may require opening and closing doors, turning on and off lights or electronic devices and pressing a set of buttons in a certain order. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to change the keys in case you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships can do this, but they might require proof of ownership and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a fundamental 3D shape in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases connected with an elongated surface, which is a fixed distance away from the center. This is referred to as the height of a Cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in the manufacture of car engine components.
If a key fails, you may need to replace the cylinder, too. This is a simple repair that you can usually do yourself. If you're skilled with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock at your local auto parts shop and replace it in accordance with the directions in the owner's manual. It's not always a simple process and it's usually better to let a professional handle it for you.
If your car keys aren't getting into the ignition or starting the engine, the problem might be with the cylinder or the battery. The battery change on your key fob is one of the first things you should try, and it might solve the issue. The key fob you have is likely to get lots of use and is jostled around a lot, so often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your car.
This is usually done either by the car dealership or by a locksmith, depending on the type of vehicle you own. If you own an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting the local hardware store that specializes in automotive keys or locks. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and give you an extra key, whereas the dealer will require the VIN number of your car or evidence of ownership in order to make the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time keys get beaten. They get jumbled around in pockets, purses and drawers, and could even be bent in a difficult-to-access place. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves on your key to ensure that they're clean and in good condition. If not, the grooves of the key will eventually wear away making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
If your key is stuck in the ignition, there are a few different things you can do to assist it. Try using a spare key to determine if the problem lies with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, remote car key repairs can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is properly align with the internal components.
A key jamming in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers in the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop properly and prevent the key from being removed or inserted successfully. You can align the tumblers by using an oil for locks, or graphite.
In addition, some may suggest tapping the end of the key using the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this could end up damaging the key as well as the cylinder that controls ignition. It is better to use a tackhammer to knock the key down, but be cautious not to hit it too hard.
If you have tried all of these tips but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to consult a professional. A qualified locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the car ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it simple to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, just like all things that rely on batteries, it eventually dies. Luckily, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as excellent as new.
First, you'll need find the right battery. The best place to start is by reading the owner's manual or asking a locksmith about the type of battery your car uses. Then, you can purchase the appropriate replacement from an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is possible to disassemble your key fob to find the battery slot. If you do this, make sure you make use of a soft tool, such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail to push open the fob, without causing 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 line to each other. Otherwise the battery won't be able charge correctly. Close the key fob after the battery is installed.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything functions just as it should you can hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. In no time, life's interruptions will not be a problem since you'll be a pro in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more tips on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you are not ready yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to happen with your car key is that it gets bent inside the lock or even worse, gets stuck inside. This kind of key can usually be repaired. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be released 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 not working properly with the lock wafers. This could also mean that you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or the key.
If the key is still in a position to be inserted into the cylinder, but it's not aligned correctly it will require an hammer to flatten it. Make sure you use a hammer that is soft so as not to damage the key or lock cylinder. You can also utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back to align. It may take a few attempts to get the key back in the proper alignment.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it could be that the teeth have become overly worn and aren't engaging the wafers in the lock properly. In this case you'll require a new key as soon as possible. You can accomplish this by taking the stub of your key back to the dealership you bought your vehicle from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to your old key. This is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend the key you have already got into shape.