5 Car Key Repair Projects For Every Budget
Wiki Article
Why Your Car Key May Not Turn
There are a variety of reasons for why your key won't turn. Some fixes are simple, while others require more technical expertise or assistance from a professional.
AutoZone associates can replace most traditional keys that don't have a chip by selecting an identical key blank and utilizing a machine to copy 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 unavoidable times - like when you're loading 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 caused by your key fob battery, or a dead lock it is usually very simple to repair and could help you save the expense of a costly replacement.
The first thing you can try is to replace the battery on your key fob if it's no longer holding a charge anymore. This is a great solution, especially if your key fob has been tossed around a lot. If you're still struggling making a quick visit to your local AutoZone can help.
Transponder chips could be embedded inside the head of plastic on your key if you own an older model car. These chips are designed to be more effective anti-theft devices. They emit unique code when your key is was inserted into the ignition. This signal is then detected by the vehicle's "immobilizer" which either accepts it and begins your engine or rejects it and prevents your vehicle from beginning.
It is possible to reset the chip on your own by following the instructions in the owner's manual. You may need to open and close doors, switch on and off electronics or lights and press a series of buttons in a certain order. 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 among the most basic 3D geometric shapes. It's a form with two circular bases that are connected by a curved area at a set distance from the center, which is known as the height of the cylinder. Toilet paper rolls and 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 parts.
If a key fails it is possible to replace the cylinder too. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, and it's usually feasible to perform it yourself. If you're proficient with a toolbox you can purchase a new ignition lock cylinder at your local auto part store and follow the directions in your owner's manual to replace it. However, it's not always an easy task and it's usually better to have a professional take care of it for you.
If your car keys don't start the engine or enter the ignition it could be a problem with the cylinder or battery. It is recommended to test changing the battery of your key fob first. This may fix the issue. Your key fob is likely to see lots of use and is moved around a lot, so it may need to be cleaned and reprogrammed to the car.
This is usually done either by the car dealership or by locksmiths, based on what type of vehicle you own. If you have an older model vehicle, it is worth visiting an area hardware store that specialises in automotive keys or locks. A hardware store can usually cut a standard car key and give you an alternative, while the dealer will need the VIN number of your vehicle or proof of ownership to create an alternative.
Gear Selector
Over time keys take a beating. They can get tangled in purses, drawers and pockets, or bent in places that are difficult to reach. It is essential to examine the grooves of your key frequently to ensure that they are clean and intact. If not, the grooves of 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 different things you can do to assist it. Try using a spare to determine if the problem lies with the ignition switch or the key switch. Then, move your key into and out of the ignition to align it 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 could cause the pins to not drop correctly, which can prevent the key from being properly inserted. You can align the tumblers with a lock lubricant, or graphite.
Finally, some people may recommend tapping the end of the key with a hammer while it is in the ignition, but this can cause damage to the key and the cylinder of ignition. It is better to use a tack hammer to knock the key off, but be careful not to strike it too hard.
If you've tried these suggestions but are not able to get rid of your car key, it may be time to contact an expert. A certified locksmith or mechanic can safely disassemble the car ignition and take out your key.
Battery
The car key fob is an excellent tool that allows you to lock and unlock your car. Unfortunately, just like all things that run on batteries - it eventually dies. Luckily, you can replace the battery yourself, and your key fob will be as great as new.
You'll need to first locate the right battery. The best place to begin is by reading your owner's manual or asking a locksmith about the type 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 your key fob in order to locate the battery slot. If so it, it is essential car key repairs that you make use of a soft tool, such as 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 match up with each other. The battery will not be able charge properly if you don't make this a priority. Close the key fob after the battery has been installed.
Test your new key by pressing the button and pointing it at your vehicle. If everything functions as it should you can hop in and take a look at your newly restored car key. Before you know it interruptions in your life won't be an issue because you'll be an expert in the field of replacing car key batteries. Good luck! Be sure to check our blog for more advice on how you can fix your vehicle at home. If you're not sure, we offer low-cost key fob repair.
Bent Key
The last thing you'd want to happen to your car key is to have it get bent in the lock or worse still, stuck inside. Luckily, this type of key can usually be repaired. If the key is stuck too long and is not able to be removed with normal twisting, the only option is replacing it.
Generally, the problem with a key getting stuck in the ignition is the fact that it has become overly worn and is not engaging the lock wafers correctly. This could mean that you need a new ignition cylinder, or a key.
If the key is still capable of being put into the cylinder but it's not aligned in the right way it will require an hammer to flatten the key. Make sure to use a soft-faced hammer so as to not damage the lock cylinder or key. You could also utilize the flat end of needle-nosed pliers to bend the key back into its proper alignment. It could take several tries to get the key into the right position.
If the key is not able to be removed from the ignition cylinder, it means that the teeth are excessively worn and are no longer connecting the wafers in the lock in a proper manner. In this situation you'll require to replace your key as quickly as you can. You can accomplish this by taking the key stub back to the dealership where you purchased your car from and asking for an VIN-cut key that's exactly like your old key. This is much easier and less expensive than trying to use your current key to get back into shape.