5 Car Key Repair Projects For Every Budget
Wiki Article
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are many reasons your car key may not turn. Some are simple fixes and others require more technical expertise or assistance from an expert.
AutoZone associates can replace traditional keys, without chip by using a blank key that matches your existing key. They then use a machine duplicate the contours. This service usually takes only minutes.
Ignition Socket
Sometimes, a car's key will stop working at the worst possible moment. For example, when you are loading groceries into the trunk or on your way to the gym. Or even when you are heading back home after a long working day. If the issue is caused by a deadlock or your key fob, it's typically simple to fix. This can help you avoid having to buy a new vehicle.
The first thing to try is replacing the battery in your key fob if it's not holding a charge anymore. This often fixes the problem particularly if you've had it for a while and has been tossed around a lot. If you're still struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone can assist.
Transponder chips can be found inside the head of plastic on your key if you own an older model car. The idea behind it is to be a better anti-theft device they emit a unique number of codes when your key is put into the ignition. This signal is then scanned and interpreted by the "immobilizer" that either starts and accepts the engine of your vehicle or blocks it from beginning.
Depending on the specific model of your car You may be in a position to reset the chip by following the steps in the owner's manual. It is possible to open and close doors, turn on and off electronics or lights and press a series of buttons in a particular order. If you're unable to do this yourself, it's important to know that locksmiths and manufacturers can reprogram the keys for a small fee. Some car dealerships are able to perform this task for you, but may require proof of ownership documents and an amount of money.
Cylinder
The cylinder is the most basic 3D geometric shape. It's a shape that has two circular bases connected with a curved surface, at an undefined distance from the center. This is referred to as the height of the Cylinder. Some real-life examples of a cylindrical shape include toilet paper rolls, cold drink containers and LPG gas cylinders. The cylinder can also be found in many car engine components.
You might also have to replace the cylinder in case your key breaks. It's a relatively cheap repair, and it's usually possible to 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 the owner's manual to replace it. It's not always an easy task and is often better to let a professional handle it for you.
If your car keys are not getting into the ignition or turning on the engine, the problem could be due to the cylinder or the battery. Change the battery inside your key fob is among the first things to do, and it may fix the problem. Your key fob is bound to get a lot used and tossed around, so it might require cleaning and changed.
This is usually done either by an auto dealership or locksmiths, based on the kind of vehicle you own. If you have an older model, it's worth looking for a local hardware shop that has a specialization in keys or locks for automobiles. Hardware stores can typically cut a standard car key and give you a spare, while the dealer will need your vehicle's VIN number or evidence of ownership in order to make a replacement.
Gear Selector
Over time, keys can be damaged. They can be jumbled in drawers, purses and pockets, and even bent in difficult-to-access places. That's why it is so important to regularly inspect the grooves of your keys to make sure they are clean and intact. If not the grooves of the key will eventually wear away and make it difficult to remove and insert the key.
There are several options you can use to get your key off the ignition. Try using a spare key to determine if the issue lies with the the ignition switch. Then, jiggle the key in and out of the ignition to ensure that it is align properly with the internal components.
A key jamming inside the ignition cylinder can also be caused by misaligned small tumblers within the cylinder. This can cause the pins to not drop correctly, which prevents the key from being inserted or removed successfully. Using a specialized lock lubricant or graphite powder can assist in re-aligning the tumblers so that the key will be able to easily slide out of the ignition.
Some people suggest that you tap the end of the ignition key using the hammer of a small size. This could cause damage to the ignition cylinder as well as the key. It is better to employ a tack hammer to knock the key off, however, be careful not to hit it too hard.
If you've tried all of these methods but you're not able to get rid of your car key, it may be time to contact a professional. A certified locksmith or mechanic will be able safely disassemble the ignition of your car and remove your key.
Battery
The car key fob is a handy tool that makes it easy to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, as with all things that run on batteries - it eventually dies. Fortunately, you can replace the battery on your own and your key fob will be as excellent as new.
First, you'll need to locate the correct battery. Begin by reading the owner's manual of your vehicle, or asking a local locksmith what type of battery they use. You can buy a replacement battery at your local auto parts store or hardware store. You may also have to disassemble your key fob to locate the battery slot. If so this, make sure you make use of a soft tool, like a screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry open the fob, 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 line up. The battery won't be able to 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 at the car. Now it's time to get in your car and enjoy your newly restored key. Before you know it interruptions in your life will not be a problem since you'll be a pro in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! And be sure to follow our blog for more tips on how to repair your vehicle at home. If you're not prepared yet, we offer affordable keyfob repair services.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is for it to get bent inside the lock, or worse, get stuck inside. This kind of key is usually repaired. If the key is stuck too long and cannot be removed by normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.
The key may be worn out and not engage the lock wafers properly. It may be an indication that you must remote key fob repair replace the ignition cylinder or just purchase a new one.
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. Use a soft-faced, non-damaging tool to ensure that you don't damage the lock cylinder or key. Alternatively, you could utilize the flat end of a pair of needle-nose pliers to bend it back into alignment. It may take a few attempts to bring the key back in alignment.
If the key is unable to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it is a sign that the teeth have become overly worn and are no longer engaging the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. In this case you'll need a new key as soon as you can. This can be done by taking the stub of your key to the dealership from which you bought your car, and soliciting an VIN cut key that is the exact same as your old one. This is much easier and less expensive than trying to bend your existing key back into shape.