Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are many reasons your car key won't turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical knowledge or professional help.

AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't have a chip by selecting an identical key blank and utilizing an instrument to replicate the contours of your existing key. This service typically only takes minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will be inoperable at the most inconvenient times, for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk on the way to the gym or home after an exhausting day. If the issue is due to a deadlock or your key fob, it's generally simple to solve. This could save you from needing to purchase a new car.

If your key fob key repair isn't charging The first thing you should do is replace the battery. This is a good solution, especially when your key fob has been tossed around a lot. If you're still experiencing issues then a visit to your local AutoZone could be able to assist.

Transponder chips could be embedded in the plastic head on your key if driving a more modern car. The idea behind it is to be a more efficient anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique number of codes when your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then read and processed by the "immobilizer" which either allows you to start your car's engine or denies it from beginning.

You may be able reset the chip yourself by following the directions in the owner's manual. It may require opening and closing doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronics and pressing a set of buttons in a certain sequence. You can pay a locksmith or manufacturer to modify your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car Key Button repair dealerships are able to do this for you but may require proof of ownership documents and a deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a fundamental 3D shape in geometry. It's a form with two circular bases connected by a curved surface at a set distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Examples of real-world cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in the manufacture of car engine components.

It is also possible to replace the cylinder in case your key fails. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can typically do yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder from your local auto parts store and follow the instructions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. However, it's not always a simple process, and it's often easier to let a professional do it for you.

If your car keys do not start the engine or turn on the ignition it could be due to an issue with the battery or Car key button repair cylinder. The battery change inside your key fob is among the first things you need to try, and it might fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to be used a lot and jostled, so it could require cleaning and reset.

This is usually handled by locksmiths or your car dealership, depending on the type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth trying a local hardware store that specializes in keys for online automotive locks. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and give you an extra key, whereas the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or proof of ownership to make an alternative.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys may be damaged. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses, and pockets, or bent in hard-to-reach places. That's why it is so important to regularly check the grooves on your key to make sure they are clean and intact. If not the grooves of the key will eventually wear out making it difficult to insert and remove the key.

If your key becomes stuck in the ignition there are a couple of options to assist it. Try using a spare key to determine if the problem lies with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, you can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to help it properly align with the internal components.

A key jamming inside the ignition cylinder may be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers inside the cylinder. This could cause the pins to not drop correctly, preventing the key from being successfully inserted. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder can assist in re-aligning these tumblers, so the key can easily come out of the ignition.

Some people suggest that you tap the tip of the ignition key using a small hammer. This could damage the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. Make use of a tack-hammer instead a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.

If you have tried all of these methods but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to call an expert. A professional locksmith or mechanic will be able safely disassemble the ignition of your car and then remove the key.

Battery

The car key fob is an excellent tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, like most things that rely on batteries, it eventually dies. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself and your key fob is as good as new.

You'll need to first locate the correct battery. Start by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a locksmith in your area which type of battery it is. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. It is also possible to remove your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is essential to make use of a soft tool like a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob open without causing internal damage.

Insert the new battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. 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 at the car. If everything functions just as it should, it's time to hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. You'll soon be a pro at 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 are not ready yet, we can help you with affordable keyfob repairs.

Bent Key

The most undesirable thing that could happen with your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock or worse, it gets stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repairable. However in the event that the key is too deep and cannot be removed using normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.

Generally speaking, the issue with a key getting stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become overly worn and is not engaging the lock wafers properly. This could mean that you require an ignition cylinder that is new, or an ignition key.

If the key is still capable of being placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned properly then you'll need a hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to avoid damaging the lock's cylinder or key. You could also use the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into alignment. It may take a few tries to get the key back into the right position.

If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it is a sign that the teeth have become overly worn and are no longer engaging the wafers in the lock properly. In this case, you will need an entirely new key as soon as you can. You can accomplish this by taking the stub of your key back to the dealer you purchased your vehicle from and requesting an VIN-cut key that's exactly like your old key. This is much easier and less expensive than trying to use your current key to get back to normal.