Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

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

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it could be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. You can fix car ignition this by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to put the car into gear.

If it is still not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix car ignition these issues.

The ignition cylinder can also wear out. Over time, the ignition and the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. 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 tapes that hold packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem, you can try cleaning the key using an old cloth or using a cleaner such as Triflow. You can also test a spare key to determine if the problem is with the ignition or the key.

You can also tap the key using a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition which will allow them to slide in place. You must be cautious not to harm either the ignition cylinder or key.

If all of the above methods are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it altogether. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle is required to be brought to a repair shop to get it replaced. Luckily, these problems are generally easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to stop turning. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling on the wheel and securing themselves against it with their hands. It may also happen when an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

This is a quick fix that doesn't involve a trip to the locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked a quick look at the steering column will show whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the lock or pulling it down with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much pressure as this can damage the key or break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use an alternate key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it might help. Apply a small amount around the ignition, and keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this doesn't work, you will likely have to visit a specialist at your local auto dealership. They can provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.

Check the Key

It could be that your key has been damaged if it will not turn in the ignition. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this can help.

It could be that the internal lock pins aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently removing it of the ignition after you insert it. You should be able to hear and feel the pins move inside. If not, you can 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 help the pins slide into place as you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn and stop you from starting your car key ignition replacement near me. If this happens you'll need take your vehicle to a locksmith or repair shop for repair.

If you can turn your car on with an extra key, and you've ruled out any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has been worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of the hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does nothing will happen, you'll have to get your lock's cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when you insert it. It is often gunked up with debris or simply due to wear and wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.

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

Before you do this, ensure that your car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. A lot of newer cars come with a system that can stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral and prevent the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you've tried these steps but your key is still unable to turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct procedures.

Generally speaking, this involves removal of the plastic cover which covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in place.

Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one that you have purchased with the previous one to ensure that they are an identical match. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

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