6 Possible Reasons Why Your Car Keys Don't Work

Car keys failing to unlock the doors or start your car can be frustrating. But why would your car keys stop working without warning? Below are some explanations of why car keys fail to work.

1. Damaged Lock

Damaged car locks can prevent your keys from working. The car lock is likely faulty if the key turns without opening the lock. Alternatively, the key may fail to turn if the lock is damaged.

Locks become faulty due to old age, extreme temperatures, or dirt blocking the keyway. Moreover, the impact of car collisions can also damage your locks.

If you suspect the lock is faulty, engage a locksmith. An auto locksmith can tell whether the problem lies with the lock assembly or the lock cylinder. Your local locksmith can repair the lock on-site. Alternatively, they can replace the lock if the damage is irreversible.

2. Worn-Out Keys

Unlocking door locks and starting the ignition every day can take a toll on your car keys. With time, the keys will have dings and scratches. The dents may seem minor, but one day, your worn-out keys will get stuck in the ignition or fail to open the door.

Replace worn-out keys before they leave you stranded or damage your ignition. If you spot dings or scratches on the key, ask your local auto locksmith to replace it.

3. Faulty Ignition

Constant wear and tear also affect your car ignition. The friction from the key can damage the internal parts of the ignition. So, don't always blame your keys if the car fails to start. You must have a professional check the ignition cylinder to confirm if it's faulty.

You can tell whether the ignition cylinder is faulty if your keys open your car door but fail to start the car. Also, check for the immobilizer warning light, as it may indicate a problem with the ignition system.

An automotive locksmith can help you deal with faulty ignition cylinders. The locksmith will either repair the ignition cylinder or replace it entirely.

4. Drained Key Fob Batteries

Your car key fob can only work with fully charged batteries. The key fob will give you the following warning signs when the batteries get drained:

• The key fob doesn't work at all.
• The fob only works on occasion.
• You must click the buttons multiple times.
• You have reduced signal strength.

The transponder chips in the car locking system and the fob can't communicate if the batteries have no charge. So, once you notice these signs, change the batteries and test whether the key fob will work.

5. Damaged Key Fob

If the battery replacement doesn't work, your key fob is probably faulty. A key fob won't work if the transmitter or receiver is defective. Any damage to the transmitter or receiver cuts off communication between the key fob and the car locking system.

Key fobs can become faulty due to old age or when you drop them. Besides, the constant pressing of buttons can cause wear and tear.

Car dealerships and auto locksmiths can fix most key fob problems. But if the experts can't salvage the key fob, they'll recommend a proper replacement.

6. Unprogrammed Key

A key fob can only work if a dealership or locksmith has programmed it to work with your car. Unfortunately, key fobs lose data or reset themselves due to security reasons. If that happens, you must reprogram your key fob once more. Programming is also necessary when you replace the key fob.

The Lock Shop can help you fix your car keys, ignition system, or car locking system. Contact us today for a quick resolution.