5 Car Key Repair Lessons From Professionals
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons your car keys won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require more technical knowledge or help from a professional.
AutoZone associates can substitute for most traditional keys that don't have chip by choosing an identical key blank and utilizing machines to replicate the contours of your current key. This service usually takes only minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop working at the most inconvenient times, for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk on your way to the gym or home after a long day. If the problem is due to a deadlock or a key fob, it's usually easy to repair. This could help you avoid having to purchase a brand new car.
If your key fob is not keeping a charge the first thing you need to do is replace the battery. This is a viable option particularly in the event that your key fob has been tossed around often. If you're still having issues taking a trip to your local AutoZone could aid.
If you're driving a newer vehicle it may have a transponder chip in the head of your plastic key. It is designed to be a better anti-theft device they emit a unique code when your key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" which either accepts and starts your car's engine or blocks it from beginning.
Depending on the specific model of your car depending on the model, you might be capable of resetting the chip on your own by following the directions in your owner's manual. It could include opening and closing doors or turning off lights or electronics and pressing a series of buttons in a particular order. You can pay a locksmith manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships can perform this, however they might require proof of ownership as well as the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a basic 3D geometric shape. It's a shape with two circular bases that are connected by a curved surface at an exact distance from the center. This is called the height of the cylinder. Examples of real-world cylinder include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in many car engine parts.
When a key breaks it is possible to replace the cylinder, too. This is an inexpensive repair that you can usually do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder at the local auto parts store and follow the instructions in your owner's manual for how to replace it. But, key fob repair near me 's not always an easy task and is often 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 a problem with the cylinder or battery. The battery change in your key fob is one of the first things to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob is likely to be frequently used and jostled, so it may require cleaning and changed.
This is usually handled by a locksmith or your car dealership, based on the kind of car you own. If you have an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting a local hardware shop that specializes in automotive keys or locks. Hardware stores can typically cut the standard car key and give you an alternative, while the dealer will require the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to make the replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys get beaten. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in difficult-to-access places. This is why it's important to check the grooves of your key to make sure they're clean and in good condition. If they're not, the grooves will eventually wear down making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to aid in removing it. First try using a spare key to see whether the issue is related to the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, move your key in and out of ignition to align it with the internal components.
A key jamming in the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misalignment of the small tumblers inside the cylinder. This could cause the pins to fall off incorrectly and block the key from being inserted or removed successfully. You can align the tumblers by using an oil for locks, or graphite.
Some recommend that you tap the tip of the ignition key with the hammer of a small size. This could damage the ignition cylinder and the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of a hammer, but don't hit it too hard.
If you've tried these suggestions but are not able to get rid of your car key, it might be time to contact a professional. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able to take apart the ignition and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a handy tool that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, as with all things that rely on batteries, it will eventually fail. You can easily replace the batteries yourself and your key fob will be like new.
The first step is to find the right battery. The best way to begin is by reading your owner's manual or asking locksmiths about the kind of battery that your vehicle uses. Then, you can purchase an equivalent replacement at the local hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is possible to disassemble the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. It is crucial to make use of a soft tool such as a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob apart without causing internal damage.
Place the battery carefully into the slot once you have opened the keyfob. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery match to each other. The battery won't be able charge properly in the absence of this. Once the battery is fully charged close the key fob, then snap it back together.
Press the button on your new key and point it towards the car. It's now time to get in your car and enjoy your newly restored key. In no time interruptions to your day will be no problem because you'll be a master in car key battery replacement. Good luck! Make sure you follow our blog for more advice on how you can fix your vehicle at home. If you're not prepared yet, we offer affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or worse, it gets stuck inside. This type of key is usually repaired. However, if the key is too far in and cannot be removed with normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
The key might be worn out and unable to engage the lock wafers correctly. This could also mean you require a new ignition cylinder, or a key.
If the key can be inserted into the cylinder, and then turned, but isn't aligned properly, you'll need to flatten it with a hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to ensure that you don't damage the lock's cylinder or key. Alternately, you can make use of the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It may take a few attempts to get the key back into its proper position.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, it indicates that the teeth are overly worn out and no longer properly engage the wafers. If this is the case, a replacement key will be needed as soon as is possible. You can do this by bringing the stub of your key back to the dealership you purchased your car from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's identical to your old key. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying to bend the key you have already got to form.