A Comprehensive Guide To Car Key Repair From Start To Finish

Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a myriad of possible reasons why your key won't turn. Some fixes are easy, while others require more technical knowledge or expert assistance.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys without chip by using a blank key that is a match to your existing key. They then use a machine duplicate the contours. This service usually takes only 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 on your way to the gym. Even when you are heading home after a long day at work. The good news is that if the problem is due to your key fob battery or dead lock it is typically a simple fix and could save you the expense of a costly replacement.
If your key fob is not holding a charge the first thing to 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 then a visit to your local AutoZone might be able assist.
Transponder chips can be found inside the head of plastic on your key if you own a newer car. Designed to be a more efficient anti-theft device, these chips emit a unique code when your key is put into the ignition. This signal is read by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine, or rejects it and stops your car from getting started.
You might be able to reset the chip on your own by following the instructions in the owner's manual. It could involve closing and opening doors as well as turning off and on lights or electronic devices and pressing a number of buttons in a specific order. If you're unable to accomplish this by yourself, you need to note that most locksmiths and manufacturers are able to reprogram these keys for a fee. Some car dealerships can perform this, however they may require proof of ownership as well as a deposit.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a fundamental 3D shape in geometry. It's a shape that has two circular bases connected by a curved surface at a set distance from the center, called the height of the cylinder. A few real-world examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers, and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder is also found in a variety of car engine parts.
You might also have to replace the cylinder in case your key fails. This is an inexpensive repair that you could do yourself. If you're handy with a toolbox, you can purchase a brand new ignition lock cylinder at the local auto parts store and follow the steps in your owner's manual for how to replace it. It's not always an easy task and it's better to let someone else take care of it.
If your car keys are not entering the ignition or turning on the engine, the problem might be with the cylinder or battery. The battery change inside your key fob is one of the first things to try, and it might solve the issue. Your key fob likely gets frequent use and is jostled around a lot, which is why it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed for the car.
It is usually carried out by an auto dealership or a locksmith, based on what type of vehicle you have. If you have an older model car, it is worth visiting an area hardware store that specializes in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store will usually be capable of cutting a standard key and provide you with a spare. However the dealer might require your VIN number or proof ownership to be able to make a new replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, our keys get beaten. They can get lost in purses, pockets and drawers, and can even be bent in a hard-to-reach place. That's why it is so important to check the grooves of your key to ensure that they are clean and intact. If they're not the grooves will eventually get worn down, making it difficult to insert or remove the key.
There are a variety of ways you can free your key from the ignition. First try using an extra key to determine whether the issue is related to the key itself or the ignition switch. Then, move the key in and out of the ignition to help it get aligned with the internal components.
A jamming of the key in the ignition cylinder could be caused by misalignment of small tumblers inside the cylinder. This can result in the pins failing to drop correctly, preventing the key from being inserted successfully. You can adjust the tumblers using the lock lubricant or graphite.
Some recommend tapping the end of the ignition key with a small hammer. This can damage the cylinder that controls the ignition and the key. Make mobile car key repair of a tack-hammer instead 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 contact a professional. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able safely disassemble the ignition of your car and then remove the key.
Battery
The car key fob makes it easy to lock or unlock your vehicle. Unfortunately, just like all things that are powered by batteries - it eventually dies. You can replace the batteries yourself, and your key fob is as good as new.
First, you'll need to find the right battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle or asking a locksmith at your local store which type of battery they use. Then, you can purchase an equivalent replacement at a local hardware store or auto parts retailer. You may have to take apart the fob that you have 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 then carefully insert the new battery into the slot. Make sure that the positive and negative sides of the batteries are in sync. Otherwise the battery will not be able to charge properly. Once the battery is installed shut off the key fob and snap it back together.
Press the button on your new key and point it at the car. If everything works according to plan then it's time to get in and take a look at your newly restored car key. You'll soon be an expert in replacing the battery of your car key. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more advice on how to fix your vehicle at home. If you're not quite ready, we offer affordable key fob replacements.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is for it to get bent in the lock, or even worse, to become stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can usually be repaired. However when the key is too far in and can no longer be removed using normal twisting, the only way to fix it is to replace it.
The most common issue with a key that gets stuck in the ignition is that it has become excessively worn and is not engaging the lock wafers properly. This could also mean that you require an entirely new ignition cylinder or the key.
If the key is still capable of being placed into the cylinder but it's not aligned correctly, you will need a hammer to flatten it. Make sure to employ a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the key or lock cylinder. Alternatively, you could utilize the flat end of a pair needle-nose pliers to bend the key back into alignment. It might require a few tries to get the key back in alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition, it means that the teeth are excessively worn and do not engage the wafers correctly. If this is the case, a replacement key is required as soon as is possible. You can do this by bringing the key stub back to the dealer you bought your vehicle from and requesting an VIN-cut key that's identical to the previous key. This is a lot simpler and less expensive than trying bend your existing key back to form.