Car Key Repair Tips From The Best In The Industry
Wiki Article
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your key won't turn. Some are simple fixes while others require some technical knowledge or help from a professional.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that don't contain chip by choosing 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 keys will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For instance, if you are putting groceries in the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you are heading back home after a long working day. If the problem is due to a deadlock or your key fob, it's typically simple to solve. This can help you avoid having to purchase a brand new vehicle.
If your key fob isn't charging, the first thing you should do is replace the battery. This is a viable option particularly if your key fob has been jostled a lot. If you still have problems, a quick visit to your local AutoZone might be able help.
Transponder chips could be embedded in the head of plastic on your key if you drive an older model vehicle. It is designed to be a more effective anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when the key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" which either accepts and starts the engine of your vehicle or blocks it from starting.
Based on the model of your vehicle, you may be capable of resetting the chip yourself by following the steps in your owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights and press a series of buttons in a particular 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 will perform this task for you, but might require proof of ownership papers and a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometry shape. It's a form with two circular bases that are connected by a curved area at an exact distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls, cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in a variety of car engine components.
If a key is damaged, you may need to replace the cylinder too. 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 from the local auto parts store and follow the directions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. But, it's not always an easy process and it's usually better to let a professional handle it for you.
If your car keys won't start the engine or enter the ignition, it could be an issue with the battery or cylinder. Change the battery inside your key fob is one of the first things you need to try, and it could solve the issue. Your key fob is likely to be used a lot and tossed around, so it could require cleaning and changed.
This is usually done either by the car dealership or by locksmiths, based on what type of vehicle you have. If you own an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that specialises in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store will typically cut the standard car key and supply an extra key, whereas the dealer will require the VIN number of your vehicle or evidence of ownership in order to make a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys may become damaged. They are tossed around in pockets, purses and drawers, and could even be bent in a hard-to-reach area. It is crucial to check the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they're well-maintained and clean. If they're not the grooves will eventually get worn down, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
There are several things you can try to get your key off the ignition. First, try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is related to the key or emergency car key repair the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is align properly 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 are not aligned. This could cause the pins not to drop properly, preventing the key from being properly inserted. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder can help to re-align these tumblers, ensuring that the key can easily come out of the ignition.
Some people might suggest tapping the end of the key with the hammer when it's in the ignition, but this can cause damage to the key and the cylinder that controls ignition. It is safer to use a tack hammer to knock the key off, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all these methods but you're still unable to get rid of your car key, it might be time to contact a professional. A professional locksmith or mechanic will be able to securely disassemble your car ignition and take out your key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. 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 great as new.
You'll first need to find the correct battery. The best place to begin is to read your owner's manual or talking to a locksmith about the type of battery that your vehicle uses. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts store 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 make use of a soft tool, like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to push 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 battery match up. The battery won't be able charge properly if you don't make this a priority. Once the battery is fully charged close the key fob and then snap it back to its original position.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. It's time to get in your car and enjoy the newly restored key. You'll soon be an expert in replacing the car key battery. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for more information on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you are not ready yet, we offer affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you would like to happen to your car key is to have it get bent inside the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can usually be fixed. However, if the key is too far into and can no longer be removed by normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
The key may be worn out and unable to engage the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you need a new ignition cylinder, or a key.
If the key is capable of being inserted into the cylinder, but it's not aligned correctly, you will need an hammer to flatten it. Be sure to use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You can also make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It might require a few tries to get the key back in alignment.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it is a sign that the teeth have become excessively worn and are not engaging the wafers in the lock correctly. If this is the case, a new key will be required as soon as possible. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealership you purchased your vehicle from and requesting the VIN-cut keys that are identical to your previous key. This is much easier and cheaper than trying to bend your existing key back into shape.