The Ugly Truth About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition might be stuck. The key might be dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it may be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be solved by moving the switch up or down to put the car into the gear.

If it is still not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key will wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant can solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build over the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow to resolve this issue. You should also make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that may 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 none of the above work, you need to consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can make a replacement key if the issue is the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause then you'll need to take the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to repair.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. This occurs when the driver is unable to engage it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themself against it with their hands. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.

This is a quick fix that doesn't require an appointment with a locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it moves into one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick examination of the steering column should confirm that the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is usually marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling the lock or pulling on it with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much pressure since this could cause damage to the key, or even break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an alternate key to see if it can disengage the lock. This could mean that the original key has damaged and no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't work, you will likely need to see an expert at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder if necessary.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it is likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it can help.

If the pins in the lock do not move properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can put it into the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving inside. If you don't feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto ignition key replacement repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you're able to turn your car ignition barrel replacement on with an extra key, and you have eliminated any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of a hammer (not the head). Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will release it to allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does nothing then you'll need the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when it is inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or just wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the cylinder for ignition, to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be very careful to not overdo it, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is important to check that your car's transmission is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. A majority of modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have tried all of these methods but your key is still unable to turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is essential to follow the correct procedure.

This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners holding it in the position.

Once the cover has been removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition lock repair near me cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they're identical. After this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the old one.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and need to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens, you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can restart.