Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is turned on. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter up or down to put the car in the correct gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be related to the neutral safety cable, or the transmission shifter. A mechanic or local auto ignition key replacement locksmith can easily solve these issues.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key can wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, could solve this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build over the key, which prevents it from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue, you can try cleaning the key with a cloth or using a cleaner such as Triflow. You can also try a spare key to determine if the problem is with the ignition or the key.

While the key is in ignition you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This will create a slight vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing 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 contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the whole thing. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the car is required to be brought into a repair shop to have it repaired. These issues are usually simple to repair.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel as they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

Luckily, this is an easy fix that doesn't require a trip a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter gently until it moves into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is usually identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition lock repair near me circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the key or pulling it back with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force as it could damage the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make a replacement key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can aid. Just apply a small amount around the ignition, and keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to engage. If this does not work, you'll probably need to visit a specialist at your local auto dealer. They'll be able to provide you with a replacement key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

If you are unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.

If the pins within the lock do not move properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, try placing it into the ignition and gently sliding it back out. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, which they should. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious issue with your key may be that it has damaged or worn and is unable to engage the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. In this instance, you'll need to bring your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you are able to turn your car with an extra key, and you've ruled out any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder is been worn out. Try to open the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Don't use the head. Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will loosen it and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have your lock's cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with dust, or simply wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use a small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset pins that are out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo this or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, make sure the car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have an electronic system that locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned.

If you've tried all of this and still can't get your key to rotate it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is important to follow the correct procedures.

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

After removing the cover you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you will need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they're identical. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way that you did with the old one.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition can be damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you choose the right replacement and install it correctly so that your car can begin again.