What Car Key Repair Is Your Next Big Obsession

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 more technical knowledge or help from an expert.
AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that do not have a chip by selecting a matching key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your current key. This service usually takes only minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop functioning at the worst time. For instance, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or heading to the gym. Even when you're returning back home after a long working day. If the problem is due to an unlocked deadlock or your key fob, it's typically easy to solve. This can save you from having to buy a new car.
The first step is replacing the battery in your key fob if it's no longer holding a charge anymore. This is a great solution, especially when your key fob has been jostled frequently. If you still have problems it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to help.
Transponder chips could be embedded in the plastic head on your key if driving an older model vehicle. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code each time your key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer", which either starts and accepts your car's engine, or rejects and prevents it from beginning.
Depending on your specific car, you may be able to reset the chip by following the steps in the owner's guide. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights and press a series buttons in a specific order. If you're unable to accomplish this by yourself, you need to know that locksmiths and manufacturers are able to reprogram the keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships can also perform this task for you, but may require proof of ownership papers and a deposit.
car key fob repair service is the most basic 3D geometric shape. It's a form that has two circular bases that are connected by an elongated surface, which is an exact distance from the center. This is known as the height of a 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 automobile engine parts.
If a key is damaged it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can usually do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock from your local auto parts shop and replace it according to the instructions in your 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 are not being inserted into the ignition or turning on the engine, it might be with the cylinder or the battery. Change the battery in your key fob is one of the first things you need to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob likely gets a lot of use and is tossed around a lot, so sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed to the car.
This is typically done by an auto dealership or a locksmith, based on what type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that is specialized in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store will typically cut a standard car key and supply a spare, while the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to create a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys are prone to a beating. They may get lost in drawers, purses, and pockets, or bent in difficult-to-access places. That's why it's important to regularly check the grooves of your key to make sure they are clean and intact. If they're not the grooves will eventually become worn and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are alternatives you can take to help it out. First, try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to allow it to properly align with the internal components.
A key jamming inside the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misaligned small tumblers within the cylinder. This could cause the pins not to drop properly, preventing the key from being successfully inserted. Using a lock lubricant that is specially designed or graphite powder may aid in re-aligning these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.
Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key with the hammer of a small size. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder as well as the key. Make use of a tack-hammer instead the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all of these suggestions but are still unable to get rid of your car key, it could be time to consult a professional. A qualified mechanic or locksmith will be able to take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, just like all things that rely on batteries, it eventually dies. Fortunately, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as good as new.
First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. Start by reading the owner's guide of your car or asking a locksmith in your area which type of battery it uses. You can buy an alternative battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. It is also possible to remove your key fob to locate the battery slot. If you do, it is important that you use a soft tool such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing any 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 batteries are in sync. The battery won't be able to charge properly if you don't do this. Once the battery is installed shut off the key fob, then snap it back to its original position.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything is working just as it should then it's time to get in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. In no time, life's interruptions won't be an issue because you'll be an expert in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Check out our blog for more tips on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not sure for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd like to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or worse still, stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can usually be fixed. However, if the key is too deep and can no longer be removed by normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
Generally, the problem with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become overly worn and is not engaging the lock wafers properly. This could also mean that you need a new ignition cylinder, or a key.
If the key can still be inserted in the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned properly, then you'll need to flatten it out with a Hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock's cylinder or key. You can also use the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It might require a few tries to bring the key back into its proper position.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it could be that the teeth have become overly worn and are no longer engaging the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. If this is the case, a replacement key is required as soon as possible. You can do this by taking the stub of your key back to the dealership where you purchased your vehicle from and requesting a VIN-cut key that is identical to your previous key. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying to bend your current key back into shape.