Why Your Car Key May Not Turn

There are a variety of reasons why your car keys won't 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 an identical key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your existing key. This process typically takes just minutes.

Ignition Socket

Sometimes, a car key will stop working at the most unavoidable times - for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk, while heading to the gym, or when you're heading home after a long day. If the problem is caused by a deadlock or a key fob, it's typically simple to solve. This could save you from having to purchase a brand new car.

The first step is to replace the battery on your key fob if it's not charging anymore. This is a great solution particularly if your key fob has been jostled often. If you're still having issues making a quick visit to your local AutoZone could aid.

Transponder chips may be embedded in the plastic head on your key if you own a more modern vehicle. These chips are designed to be more efficient in preventing theft. They emit unique code when your key is inserted in the ignition. This signal is read by the vehicle's “immobilizer” which either accepts it and begins your engine or rejects it and prevents your vehicle from beginning.

Depending on your specific car depending on the model, you might be in a position to reset the chip on your own by following the instructions in the owner's manual. It may require opening and closing doors or turning off lights or electronics and pressing a number of buttons in a certain order. If you're unable to accomplish this on your own, it's important to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram the keys for a fee. Some car dealerships can perform this, however they might require proof of ownership and the deposit.

Cylinder

The cylinder is a fundamental 3D geometry shape. It's a shape that has two circular bases connected by a curved area at a fixed distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Toilet rolls as well as cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are just a few examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also commonly used in automobile engine components.

When a key breaks it is possible to replace the cylinder as well. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you could do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder at the local auto parts store and follow the steps in your owner's manual to replace it. But, it's not always a simple process, and it's often easier to let a professional do it for you.

If your car keys don't turn on the engine or go into the ignition it could be due to an issue with the cylinder or battery. The battery change on your key fob is among the first things you need to try, and it could solve the issue. The key fob you have is likely to get a lot of use and is jostled around a lot, so often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed for your car key lock repair near me.

This is typically done by the car dealership or by a locksmith, depending on the kind of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth trying a local hardware store that has a specialization in keys for automotive locks. A hardware store can usually cut a standard car key and give you an alternative, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to make the replacement.

Gear Selector

Over time, keys may be damaged over time. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses and pockets, and bent in places that are difficult to reach. This is why it's important to regularly inspect the grooves of your keys to make sure they are clean and intact. If they aren't then the grooves will eventually get worn down making it difficult to insert or remove the key.

There are several ways you can get your key off the ignition. First, try using an extra key to determine if the problem is with the key or the ignition switch. Then, move your key into and out of the ignition to align it with the internal components.

A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers inside the cylinder. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly and block the key from being inserted or removed successfully. You can re-align the tumblers by using the lock lubricant or graphite.

Some people might recommend tapping the end of the key with an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this could actually damage the key and the cylinder that controls ignition. It's better to use a tack hammer to knock the key down, but be cautious not to hit it too hard.

If you've tried all of these methods but are still unable remove your car keys, it might be time to consult an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to safely disassemble the car ignition and then remove the key.

Battery

The car key fob is a handy tool that makes it simple to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, just like all things that rely on batteries, it eventually dies. You can replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be just as good as new.

You'll first need to find the right battery. The best place to begin is to read your owner's manual or talking to locksmiths about the kind of battery your car utilizes. You can buy an alternative battery at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may have to take apart your key fob to find the battery slot. If you do, it is important that you employ a soft tool such as a screwdriver or even your fingernail for prying open the fob without causing internal damage.

Once you have opened the key fob then carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are aligned. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge properly. Once the battery is installed shut off the key fob, then snap it back together.

Test out your new key by pressing the button and then pointing it at the vehicle. Now it's time to hop in your vehicle and enjoy the newly restored key. In no time interruptions to your day won't be an issue because you'll be an expert in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for more tips on how to repair key fob your vehicle at home. If you're not quite ready for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob repairs.

Bent Key

The last thing you want to occur with your car key is to have it get bent in the lock, or even worse, stuck inside. This type 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 speaking, the issue with a key that becomes stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become excessively worn and is not engaging the lock wafers properly. It could be an indication that you need to replace the ignition cylinder, or just purchase a new one.

If the key is still in a position to be put into the cylinder but it's not aligned in the right way, you will need a hammer to flatten it. Be sure to use a hammer that is soft so as to not damage the key or lock cylinder. You could also use the flat end on needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It could take several tries to get the key in alignment.

If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it could be that the teeth have become overly worn and are not connecting the wafers in the lock correctly. In this case you'll require a new key as soon as you can. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealership where you bought your vehicle from and asking for the VIN-cut keys that are identical to the previous key. This is much simpler and cheaper than trying your existing key to get back into shape.(Image: https://g28carkeys.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Land-Rover.png)