5 Car Key Repair Projects For Any Budget
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons why your key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require some technical expertise or assistance from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace the majority of traditional keys that don't contain chips by choosing a matching key blank and using machines to replicate the contours of your current key. This service usually takes only minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will not work at the most inconvenient times - for instance, when you're putting groceries into your trunk, on the way to the gym or heading home after a long day. The good news is that when the problem is due to your key fob battery or dead lock, it's generally easy to repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.
The first step is to replace the battery in your key fob in case it's not holding a charge anymore. This can often fix the issue particularly if you've had it for a while, and it's been jostled around a lot. If you're still having trouble making a quick visit to your local AutoZone will assist.
If you're driving a newer vehicle, it could have a transponder chip in the plastic head of your key. It is designed to be a more effective anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code when the key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then read and interpreted by the "immobilizer", which either accepts and starts your car's engine or denies it from beginning.
You may be able reset the chip on your own 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 electronics, and pressing a set of buttons in a certain sequence. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to change the keys in case you are not able to do it on your own. Some car dealerships will also do this, but they might require proof of ownership and a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a fundamental 3D shape in geometry. It's a form with two circular bases connected by a curved surface that is an exact distance from the center, referred to 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 can also be found in a variety of car engine components.
When a key breaks it is possible to replace the cylinder too. It's a fairly inexpensive repair, and is typically possible to do yourself. If you're adept with a toolbox, you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto parts store and follow the instructions in the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy process and it's more convenient to let someone else do it.
If your car keys are not entering the ignition or turning on the engine, the problem could be related to the cylinder or battery. The battery change in your key fob is among the first things you need to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob likely gets a lot of use and is tossed around a lot, so it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your car.
This is typically done by an auto dealership or locksmiths, based on what type of vehicle you have. If you have an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that is specialized in keys for automotive locks. A hardware store can usually cut the standard car key and provide an extra key, whereas the dealer will need the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to make an alternative.
remote car key repair near me
Over time, keys can become damaged over time. They get jumbled around in purses, pockets and drawers, and they could even be bent in an impossible-to-access area. It is crucial to check the grooves on your keys regularly to ensure they are clean and intact. If not the grooves on the key will eventually wear out making it difficult to insert and remove the key.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition, there are a few alternatives you can take to assist it. Try using a spare to determine if the problem lies with the key or the ignition switch. Then, you can jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is properly align 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 misalign. This could cause the pins not to drop properly, preventing the key from being properly 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 using a small hammer. This can damage the ignition cylinder as well as the key. Use a tack-hammer instead of the hammer, but be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you have tried these suggestions but you are still unable to remove your car keys, it could be time to call a professional. A professional locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the ignition of your car and take out your key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it simple to lock or unlock your car. However, it will eventually go out of service, just like everything else powered by batteries. Fortunately, you can replace the battery yourself and your key fob will be as great as new.
First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. The best way to begin is by reading your owner's manual or asking locksmiths about the kind of battery your vehicle utilizes. You can purchase batteries at your local auto parts or hardware store. You may have to take apart the fob that you have to locate the battery slot. It is important to make use of a soft tool like a fingernail or screwdriver to open the fob out without damaging the internals.
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 will not be able charge properly if you don't do this. Once the battery is in place 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 now time to hop in your car and enjoy your newly restored key. In no time interruptions in your life will be no problem because you'll be an expert in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Make sure you follow our blog for more tips on how you can fix your vehicle at home. If you're not quite ready, we offer affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to happen to your car key is for it to become bent in the lock or even worse, stuck inside. 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, the only option is to replace it.
The key might be too worn out to engage the lock wafers properly. It may be a sign that you need to replace the ignition cylinder or just get a new key.
If the key can be inserted in the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, you will need to flatten it out using the help of a Hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer in order to prevent damaging the lock cylinder or the key. You could also use the flat end on needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It may take several attempts to get the key in alignment.
If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, it indicates that the teeth are terribly worn out and no longer properly engage the wafers. In this situation you'll require an entirely new key as soon as you can. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealer where you bought your car and request an VIN cut key that is exactly the same as the one you had previously. This is a lot easier and less expensive than trying bend your current key back into shape.