How A Weekly Car Key Repair Project Can Change Your Life
Wiki Article
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require a bit more technical expertise or assistance from an expert.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without chip using a key blank that matches your existing key. They then use a machine to duplicate the contours. This process typically takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, the car's key will stop functioning at the worst moment. For example, when you are putting groceries in the trunk or heading to the gym. Or even when you are heading back home after a long working day. If the problem is due to a deadlock or a key fob, it's typically easy to repair. This could save you from having to buy a new vehicle.
The first step is to replace the battery in your key fob if it's not keeping a charge. This is a great solution particularly if your key fob is smashed often. If you're still having trouble taking a trip to your local AutoZone will help.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, it might contain a transponder in the head of your key. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device the chips emit a unique code when your key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and then starts your engine or rejects it and stops your car from getting started.
You might be able to reset the chip by yourself if you follow the instructions in the owner's manual. It could involve closing and opening doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronic devices and pressing a number of buttons in a certain order. If you're unable to do this on your own, it's important to note that most locksmiths and the manufacturer can reprogram these keys at a cost. Some car dealerships also do this, but they may require proof of ownership and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometry shape. It's a shape with two circular bases connected by a curved area at a fixed distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical cylinder are toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also found in many car engine parts.
When a key breaks it is possible to replace the cylinder, too. It's a relatively cheap repair, and it's usually feasible to carry out. If you are skilled with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock from your local auto parts store and then replace it according to the guidelines in the owner's manual. It's not always an easy process, and it's often easier to have a professional take care of it for you.
If your car keys aren't getting into the ignition or starting the engine, the problem could be related to the cylinder or battery. Change the battery in your key fob is among the first things you should do, and it may solve the issue. Your key fob is likely to see frequent use and is jostled around a lot, so often it requires to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your vehicle.
It is usually carried out by a car dealership or locksmiths, based on what type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth visiting a local hardware store that specializes in keys or locks for automobiles. A hardware store will typically cut the standard car key and supply an extra key, whereas the dealer will need the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to make a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can be damaged. They are tossed around in pockets, purses and drawers, and they could even be bent in a hard-to-reach place. This is why it's important to check the grooves of your key to ensure they're in good shape and remote car key repairs clean. If they're not then the grooves will eventually wear down and make it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key is stuck in the ignition there are alternatives you can take to aid in removing it. Try using a spare key to determine if the issue lies with the the ignition switch. Then, jiggle your key in and out of ignition to align it 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. You can re-align the tumblers by using the lock lubricant or graphite.
Some people suggest tapping the end of the ignition key using the hammer of a small size. This can damage the ignition cylinder as well as the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of an hammer, but do not hit it too hard.
If you have tried all of these tips but still aren't able to get rid of your car keys, it may be time to consult a professional. A qualified mechanic or locksmith can safely disassemble the ignition and extract your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a handy tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your car. However, it is likely to go out of service, just like everything else that are powered by batteries. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob will be like new.
First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. The best way to begin is by reading your owner's manual, or speaking with a locksmith about the type of battery your vehicle utilizes. Then, buy an equivalent replacement at the local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may also need to disassemble the fob that you have 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 out without damaging the internals.
Insert the new battery carefully into the slot after you have opened the keyfob. Make sure the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in line. Otherwise, the battery will not be able to charge properly. Close the key fob once the battery has been installed.
Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything functions as it should, it's time to hop into your freshly restored car key. In a matter of minutes interruptions to your day will be no problem because you'll be an expert in car key battery replacement. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more tips on how you can fix 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 for it to get bent in the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. Luckily, this kind of key can usually be fixed. However, if the key is too far in and is unable to be removed by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The most common issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is that it has become overly worn and isn't working properly with the lock wafers. This could mean that you need an entirely new ignition cylinder or a key.
If the key can be inserted into the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, then you'll have to flatten it out using a hammer. Be sure to use a hammer that is soft so as not to damage the lock cylinder or key. Alternately, you can make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It could take several tries to get the key back into alignment.
If the key isn't able to be removed from the ignition cylinder it could be that the teeth have become overly worn and are not engaging the wafers in the lock correctly. In this case, you will need an entirely new key as soon as possible. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealer where you bought your car, and asking for an VIN cut key that is exactly same as the one you had previously. This is a lot simpler and cheaper than trying to bend your existing key back to form.