Car Key Repair 101: A Complete Guide For Beginners

Why Your Car Key May Not Turn There are many possible reasons why your key won't turn. Some fixes are simple, while others require more technical knowledge or assistance from a professional. AutoZone associates can 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 usually takes a few minutes. Ignition Socket Sometimes, the car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For instance, if you are loading groceries into the trunk or rushing to the gym. Or even when you're heading home from a long workday. If the problem is caused by a deadlock or a key fob, it's generally easy to repair. This could help you avoid needing to purchase a new car. If your key fob isn't holding a charge The first thing you should do is replace the battery. This often fixes the problem particularly if you've had it for a while, and it's been tossed around frequently. If you still have problems it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone might be able help. Transponder chips may be embedded in the plastic head on your key if you drive a newer vehicle. These chips are designed to be more efficient anti-theft devices. They emit unique code when your key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then read and interpreted by the “immobilizer” that either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle, or rejects and prevents it from starting. broken car key repair near me may be able reset the chip yourself by following the instructions in the owner's manual. You may have to open and close doors, turn 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 the manufacturer can modify the keys for a fee. Some car dealerships will also do this, but they may require proof of ownership as well as the deposit. Cylinder The cylinder is one of the most fundamental 3D geometric shapes. It's a form with two circular bases joined by a curved surface that is a fixed distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls as well as cans of cold drinks and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of car engine components. You may also need to replace the cylinder in case your key is damaged. This is a relatively inexpensive fix that you can typically do yourself. If you are handy with a toolbox you can purchase a new ignition lock at your local auto parts shop and replace it according to the guidelines in your owner’s manual. However, it's not always an easy process and it's usually better to let a professional do it for you. If your car keys don't start the engine or turn on the ignition, it could be a problem with the cylinder or battery. Change the battery on your key fob is one of the first things to try, and it could solve the issue. Your key fob likely gets lots of use and is moved around a lot, so sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car. This is usually handled by locksmiths or your vehicle dealership, based on the type of car you own. If you have an older model car, it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and give you a spare, while the dealer will require the VIN number of your vehicle or evidence of ownership in order to make a replacement. Gear Selector Over time, our keys get beaten. They can get lost in purses, pockets and drawers, and could even be bent in a hard-to-reach area. This is why it's important to regularly check the grooves of your keys to make sure they're clean and in good condition. If they aren't, the grooves of the key will eventually wear out making it difficult to insert and remove the key. There are many ways you can get your key off the ignition. First, try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is with the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key into and out of the ignition to allow it to get aligned with the internal components. Another possibility is that the key is stuck in the ignition cylinder, which can occur when small tumblers inside of the cylinder are not aligned. This can cause the pins not to drop properly, preventing the key from being inserted successfully. Using a lock lubricant specifically designed for locks or graphite powder can assist in re-aligning the tumblers so that keys can be easily pulled out of the ignition. Some people might recommend tapping the end of the key using an hammer while it's in the ignition, but this can end up damaging the key as well as the ignition cylinder. It is better to use a tack hammer to knock the key, however, be careful not to hit it too hard. If you've tried all of these tips and are not able to get rid of your car key, it could be time to contact a professional. A qualified locksmith or mechanic can securely disassemble your car ignition and remove your key. Battery The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your car. However, it is likely to end up dying just like other devices that are powered by batteries. You can replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob is as good as new. The first step is to find the right battery. The best place to start is by reading your owner's manual, or speaking with locksmiths about the kind of battery your vehicle uses. You can buy an alternative battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may also need to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. It is essential to use a soft tool, like a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob open without causing internal damage. After 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 with each other. The battery will not be able charge properly if you don't do this. Close the key fob once the battery has been installed. Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. If everything is working according to plan then it's time to get into your freshly restored car key. In no time interruptions in your life will not be a problem since you'll be a pro in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Follow our blog to get more advice on how you can fix your vehicle yourself. If you are not ready yet, we can provide affordable keyfob repair services. Bent Key The final thing you want to happen to your car key is that it gets bent in the lock, or even worse, stuck inside. Fortunately, this type of key can usually be repaired. If the key is stuck too far and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, then the only option is to replace it. The key might be worn out and not connect the lock wafers in a proper. This could mean that you need an ignition cylinder that is new, or an ignition key. If the key is still able to be inserted into the cylinder, but it's not aligned in the right way, you will need an hammer to flatten it. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to avoid damaging the lock's cylinder or key. You can also make use of the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It might require several attempts 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 aren't engaging the wafers inside the lock properly. In this situation you'll need to replace your key as quickly as you can. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealer you bought your car from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's exactly like your previous key. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying bend your current key back to form.