Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition could be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, it might be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to get the car into the correct gear.

If it's still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix these issues.

The ignition cylinder may also be worn out. Over time the ignition as well as the key may wear out, making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers to slide into place.

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to secure packages. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow to resolve this issue. Also, you can make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

You could also tap the key using a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide in place. Be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above methods fail, it's likely to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be time to replace it completely. If the problem is with the key the locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, the vehicle will need to be brought to a repair shop to have it replaced. Luckily, these problems are generally easy to repair.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It could also happen if an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car.

This is a quick fix that doesn't involve a trip to the mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure the shifter is either in Park or neutral. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will tell if the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually indicated by a small "Lock" label on the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling the key or pulling it back with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much force as it could damage the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key is damaged and no longer able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it may aid. Apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this doesn't work you, you might need to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They'll be able provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

It could be that your key is damaged if it does not engage in the ignition. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You could also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

It could be that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently removing it of the ignition once you have put it in. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, which they should. If not, you can apply lubrication to the pins using powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and also prevent them from becoming stuck.

It could be that your key has worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder to stop to turn, preventing you from starting your car. In this situation you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you are able to turn your car with a spare key, and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to loosen the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder can free it and allow you to turn the key of your car ignition replacement. If this does nothing will happen, you'll have to get your lock's cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out of place when inserted. It is often covered in debris or simply a result of regular wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, in an effort to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure that the car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. A lot of newer vehicles come with an option to lock the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned.

If you have done all of the above and still cannot get your key to rotate it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition lock repair near me cylinder.

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then loosen any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After you have removed the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to check the new one that you bought with the original one to ensure that they are a perfect match. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same manner as the previous one.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe locksmith ignition replacement cost for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly, so that your car ignition Lock can be started again.