8 Tips To Improve Your Car Key Repair Game

Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons your car key won't turn. Some are simple fixes and others require some technical expertise or assistance from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without a chip by using a blank key 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 key will stop working at the most inconvenient moment. For instance, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or on your way to the gym. Even when you are heading back home after a long working day. The good news is that when the problem is caused by your key fob battery or dead lock, it's generally easy to solve and may save you the cost of an expensive replacement.
The first step is to replace the battery in your key fob in case it's not holding a charge anymore. This often fixes the problem, especially if you've had it for a while, and it's been jostled around a lot. If you still have problems it's worth a visit to your local AutoZone might be able help.
If you're driving a brand newer vehicle, it could contain a transponder in the head of your key. The idea behind it is to be a more efficient anti-theft device they emit a unique code when your key is inserted into the ignition. This signal is then read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and starts your engine or rejects it and prevents your car from getting started.
Depending on the specific model of your car, you may be able to reset the chip on your own by following the directions in the owner's manual. It may include opening and closing doors, turning on and off lights or electronics and pressing a number of buttons in a particular sequence. You can pay a locksmith or the manufacturer to reprogram your keys if you are not able to do it yourself. Some car dealerships will assist you in this process, but they might require proof of ownership papers and the deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a basic 3D shape in geometry. It's a form that has two circular bases joined by a curved surface, at a fixed distance away from the center. This is known as the height of a Cylinder. Toilet rolls, cans of cold drinks, and LPG gas tanks are all examples of cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of automobile engine components.
If a key is damaged it is possible to replace the cylinder, too. It's a relatively cheap repair, and is typically feasible to carry out. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can buy a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto part store and follow the instructions in the owner's manual to replace it. However, it's not always an easy task, and it's often easier to let a professional do it for you.
If your car keys are not being inserted into the ignition or turning on the engine, the issue could be related to the cylinder or battery. The battery change on your key fob is among the first things to try, and it could solve the issue. Your key fob likely gets frequent use and is jostled around a lot, which is why sometimes it needs to be cleaned and reprogrammed to your car.
This is usually done by a locksmith or your car dealership, based on the type of car you own. If you own an older model car It is recommended to visit the local hardware store that is specialized in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store can usually cut the standard car key and supply an alternative, while the dealer will require the VIN number of your car or proof of ownership to create a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys may become damaged. They get jumbled around in pockets, purses and drawers, and may even be bent in a hard-to-reach place. That's why it is so important to regularly inspect the grooves of your keys to make sure they're clean and in good condition. If not the grooves on the key will eventually wear away making it difficult to remove and insert the key.
If your key becomes stuck in the ignition there are different things you can do to aid in removing it. First, try using an alternate key to determine whether the issue is related to the key or the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to help it properly align with the internal components.
Another possibility is that the key is jammed in the ignition cylinder which can occur when small tumblers inside the cylinder misalign. This can cause the pins to not drop properly and prevent the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder may assist in re-aligning these tumblers, so the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.
g28carkeys suggest that you tap the tip of the ignition key with the hammer of a small size. This could cause damage to the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. It's better to employ a tack hammer to knock the key off, but be careful not to strike it too hard.
If you've tried these methods but you're still unable to get rid of your car key, it may be time to consult a professional. A qualified locksmith or mechanic will be able to securely disassemble your car 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 are powered by batteries - it will eventually fail. It is easy to replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob is like new.
First, you'll need locate the correct battery. The best place to begin is by reading your owner's manual, or speaking with a locksmith about the type of battery your vehicle utilizes. Then, you can purchase a compatible replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. It is possible to disassemble your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If you do it, it is essential that you make use of a soft tool, such as a screwdriver, or even your fingernail to push open the fob, without causing internal damage.
Once you have opened the key fob, carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the battery line up. The battery won't be able charge properly if you don't do this. Once the battery is in place close the key fob and snap it back together.
Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything is working as it should, it's time to hop into your freshly restored car key. In a matter of minutes, life's interruptions will be no problem because you'll be a master at car key battery replacement. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more advice on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you are not ready yet, we can provide affordable keyfob repairs.
Bent Key
The last thing you want to happen with your car key is that it gets bent in the lock or worse, it gets stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too far and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.
The key might be too worn out to connect the lock wafers in a proper. This could also mean that you require a new ignition cylinder, or the key.
If the key can still be inserted in the cylinder and turned but isn't aligned properly, then you will need to flatten it out with an Hammer. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging hammer to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or key. You could also make use of the flat end on pliers with needle-nosed tips to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It might take a few attempts to bring the key back in its proper position.
If the key cannot be removed from the ignition, this indicates that the teeth are overly worn out and no longer engage the wafers correctly. In this case, you will need a new key as soon as you can. This can be done by taking the key stub to the dealership where you bought your car and request an VIN cut key that is exactly same as the one you had previously. This is much easier and cheaper than trying your current key to get back to normal.