Car Key Repair: The History Of Car Key Repair In 10 Milestones
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your car key may not turn. Some are simple fixes while others require a bit more technical expertise or assistance from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't contain chips by choosing a matching key blank and using a machine to copy the contours of your current key. This process usually takes a few minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For instance, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or even when you're heading home after a long day at work. The good news is that if the issue is caused by your key fob battery or dead lock, it's generally easy to repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.
If your key fob is not keeping a charge, the first thing you should do is replace the battery. This often fixes the problem, especially if you've had it for a while and it's been tossed around a lot. If you're still having trouble taking a trip to your local AutoZone can assist.
Transponder chips may be embedded in the head of plastic on your key if you drive a more modern vehicle. It is designed to be a better anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when the key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and starts your engine or rejects it and prevents your car from starting.
Depending on your specific car, you may be in a position to reset the chip yourself by following the steps in the owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights, and press series buttons in a specific order. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to change the keys in case you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships will also do this, but they might require proof of ownership as well as a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is among the most fundamental 3D shapes in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases that are connected by a curved area at a set distance from the center, referred to as 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 is also commonly used in car engine parts.
If a key is damaged it's possible that you need to replace the cylinder too. This is a relatively inexpensive repair that is usually feasible to perform it yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto part store and follow the instructions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. It's not always a simple process and it's more convenient to let someone else handle it.
If your car keys don't turn on the engine or turn on the ignition, it could be an issue with the battery or cylinder. Changing the battery on your key fob is one of the first things you need to try, and it could fix the problem. Your key fob will be used a lot and bumped around, which means it could require cleaning and changed.
This is typically done by a car dealership or a locksmith, based on the kind of vehicle you own. If you own an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that has a specialization in automotive locks or keys. 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 proof of ownership to create the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys are prone to a beating. They can be jumbled in purses, drawers and pockets, and even bent in hard-to-reach places. That's why it is so important to regularly inspect the grooves of your keys to ensure that they're in good shape and clean. If not, the grooves of the key will eventually wear away, making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are a couple of options to assist it. First, try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, move the key in and out of the ignition to allow it to get aligned with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key is jammed in the ignition cylinder, which can occur when small tumblers inside the cylinder misalign. This could cause the pins to not drop properly, which prevents the key from being removed or inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks 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 might suggest tapping the end of the key using an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this could end up damaging the key as well as the ignition cylinder. Use a tack-hammer instead of a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.
If you've tried these suggestions but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it may be time to contact an expert. A qualified mechanic or locksmith will be able to take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a convenient way to lock or unlock your car. Unfortunately, just like all things that rely on batteries, it eventually dies. Thankfully, you can easily replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as great as new.
You'll first need to find the correct battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your car or asking a locksmith in your area which kind of battery it uses. Then, you can purchase a compatible replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. repair car key may also need to take apart the fob that you have in order to locate the battery slot. If you do, it is important that you employ a soft tool like a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing any 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. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge correctly. Close the key fob once the battery has been installed.
Test your new key by pressing the button and then pointing it at your vehicle. If everything works according to plan then it's time to get into your freshly restored car key. You'll soon be a pro at changing the battery in your car key. Good luck! Check out our blog for more tips on how to fix your vehicle yourself. If you're not ready yet, we can provide affordable keyfob repair services.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd like to happen to your car key is for it to get bent in the lock, or even worse, to become stuck inside. This type of key is usually repairable. However, if the key is too far into and can no longer be removed with normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
The key might be worn out and not connect the lock wafers in a proper. This could also mean that you need an entirely new ignition cylinder or a key.
If the key is still in a position to be placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned properly, you will need an hammer to flatten the key. Make sure to use a hammer that is soft to avoid damaging the key or lock cylinder. You can also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It may take a few attempts to bring the key back in the proper alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder it means that the teeth have become overly worn and are no longer connecting the wafers in the lock properly. In this case you'll need a new key as soon as possible. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealer where you purchased your car and asking for the VIN cut key that is the exact identical to the old one. This is much easier and less expensive than trying bend your current key back to form.