Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition might be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer in it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder multiple times.

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

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, there may be a problem with the shifter switch for the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter up or downward to get the vehicle into the correct gear.

If it's not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic, or an auto locksmith in your area.

The ignition cylinder can also wear out. Over time, both the ignition and key can wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, can help solve this problem by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow to fix this problem. It is also recommended to make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer, while it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration, which could be enough to loosen the ignition's wafers and let them slide into place. You should be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or key.

If all of the above methods fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. A locksmith can make an alternative key if the issue is the key. If the problem is with the ignition lock repair cylinder, your car must be taken into a repair shop to have it replaced. Fortunately, these issues are usually very easy to repair.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A simple issue that could hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It can also happen if an individual in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they get out of the vehicle.

This is a simple fix that doesn't require a trip to the mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will reveal whether the key is engaged with the lock. A small "Lock' label is usually found in the lower portion the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is important not to apply excessive force since this could cause damage to the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using an additional key to determine whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can assist. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this does not work you, it's possible to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key is damaged if it doesn't engage in the ignition. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it aids.

If the pins in the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test the spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after you insert it. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, which they should. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need to take your car to a locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you're able to turn the car with a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of an hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will release it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when inserted. It is often covered in debris or simply due to wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.

You can also make use of a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins that could 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 neutral or park before you attempt this. Many modern cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from turning in the ignition.

If you have done all of this and still not able to 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 the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners holding it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to compare the new one that you bought with the old one to ensure that they're the same. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition can become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can begin again.