Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why the ignition of your car ignition Lock could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer in it. This can be repaired 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 make use of a small tack hammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is turned on. It is possible to fix the issue by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to put the car into the correct gear.

If the car ignition System repair doesn't turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter on the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily fix these issues.

The ignition cylinder may also be worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant can solve this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow to fix this problem. It is also recommended to utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.

When the key is in ignition you can tap it using a a small piece of hammer. This will create a slight vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide into position. You must be cautious not to harm either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. It could be that the key is broken inside the ignition or it could be the time to replace the entire thing. A locksmith can make a replacement key in the event that the issue is the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the cause then you'll have to take the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. Luckily, these problems are typically very simple to fix.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It may also happen when an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.

This is a simple fix that doesn't involve going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it changes 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 check of the steering column will determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually found in the lower portion the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling on it with moderate force. It is essential not to apply excessive force since this could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another option is using an alternate key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and is no longer able to engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an alternative key.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this does not work, you'll probably need to visit an expert at your local auto dealership. They can provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

It is possible that the internal lock pins aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, you can try placing it into the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving within. If not, you could grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place as you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it has become damaged or worn, making it unable to connect the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This may cause the ignition cylinder to not turn, which will prevent you from starting your car. In this case you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you're able to turn your car using a spare key, and you have eliminated any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock with a blunt screwdriver or a handle of the hammer. Don't use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it and allow you to turn your car key. If this is not working, you will need to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when you insert it. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or simply a result of regular 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 gently tap the interior of the cylinder for ignition, in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be very careful to not overdo it as you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, ensure that your car ignition switch replacement's gearbox is set to neutral or park. Many modern cars have an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you have done all of the above and still cannot get your key to turn it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is crucial to follow the correct procedure.

Generally, this means removal of the plastic cover which is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in place.

Once the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are the same. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in selecting the right replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will be able to start up again.