5 Car Key Repair Lessons Learned From Professionals
Wiki Article
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons why your car key may not turn. Some fixes are easy to fix, while others require more technical knowledge or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates are able to replace traditional keys without chip using a key blank that matches your existing key. They then utilize a machine to duplicate the contours. This process typically takes just minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's keys will stop working at the most inconvenient time. For instance, if you are loading groceries into the trunk or on your way to the gym. Or, perhaps, when you are heading back home after a long working day. The good news is that if the issue is due to your key fob battery, or a dead lock it is generally easy to fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.
The first thing you can try is to replace the battery on your key fob in case it's not charging anymore. This is a great solution, especially if your key fob is smashed a lot. If you're still having issues then a visit to your local AutoZone may be able to assist.
If you're driving a newer vehicle it may contain a transponder chip inside the head of your plastic key. Designed to be a more effective anti-theft device the chips emit a unique number of codes when your key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and processed by the "immobilizer" which either accepts and starts your car's engine or blocks it from beginning.
You may be able reset the chip by yourself if you follow the instructions in the owner's manual. You may need to open and close doors, switch on and off electronic devices or lights and press a series buttons in a specific order. If you're unable to do this by yourself, you need to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram the keys for a fee. Some car dealerships will do this for you but may require proof of ownership and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a basic 3D geometry shape. It's a form with two circular bases connected by a curved area at an exact distance from the center, referred to as the height of the cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink cans and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also used in the manufacture of car engine components.
You may also need to replace the cylinder if your key breaks. This is an inexpensive repair that you can usually do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox you can buy a new ignition lock from your local auto parts shop and replace it according to the guidelines in your owner’s manual. It's not always an easy process and it's more convenient to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys won't start the engine or turn on the ignition it could be a problem with the battery or cylinder. It is recommended to change the battery of your key fob first. This could resolve the issue. Your key fob will be used a lot and bumped around, which means it might require cleaning and reset.
This is usually handled by a locksmith or your car dealer, based on the model of vehicle you own. If you own an older model car it is worth visiting an area hardware store that specialises in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store should be capable of cutting an ordinary key and provide you with an extra. However the dealer might require your VIN number or proof ownership in order to design an alternative replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys are prone to a beating. They may get lost in drawers, purses and pockets, or bent in hard-to-reach places. It is essential to examine the grooves of your key frequently to ensure they are clean and intact. If they aren't the grooves on the key will eventually wear away, making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
There are a variety of ways you can get your key off the ignition. 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 jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder may be caused by misaligned small tumblers in 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 an oil for locks, or graphite.
Some recommend that you tap the end of the ignition key with a small hammer. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder and the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all of these methods but are still unable remove your car keys, it may be time to contact an expert. A locksmith or mechanic who is certified 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 vehicle. Unfortunately, just like all things that run on batteries - it will eventually fail. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself and your key fob will be like new.
You'll first need to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's guide of your car or asking a locksmith at your local store which type of battery it is. Then, buy a compatible replacement at an area hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may also have to remove your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is essential to use a soft tool, such as a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob apart without damaging the internals.
After you have opened the key fob and inserted the new battery into the slot. Make sure the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. The battery will not be able charge properly if you don't do this. Close the key fob once the battery has been installed.
Test the new key by pressing the button and then pointing it at the vehicle. If everything functions just as it should you can hop in and enjoy your newly-restored car key. In no time interruptions to your day will not be a problem since you'll be a master in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Follow our blog for more tips on how you can repair your vehicle yourself. If you're still not ready for a key replacement, we provide affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The most undesirable thing that could happen with your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or even worse, stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can be repaired. However in the event that the key is too far into and is unable to be removed by normal twisting, the only option is to replace it.
The key could be worn out and unable to connect the lock wafers in a proper. It may be a sign that you should replace the ignition cylinder, or simply purchase a new key.
If the key is still able to be placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned in the right way it will require a hammer to flatten it. Make sure you use a hammer that is soft so as to not damage the key or lock cylinder. Alternatively, you could car remote key repair shop near me make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back to align. It could require a few tries to bring the key back into its proper position.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are overly worn out and cannot engage the wafers correctly. In this instance, you will need to replace your key as quickly as you can. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealer you bought your vehicle from and requesting an VIN-cut key that's identical to your old key. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying bend your existing key back to form.