Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why your ignition in your car Ignition lock may be locked. The key might be dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

If your car ignition barrel replacement is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, there may be an issue with the shifter switch for the transmission. This can be fixed by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car in the gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or shifter on the transmission. This can be easily solved by a mechanic, or an auto locksmith in your area.

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

The key could get clogged by lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This prevents the key ignition replacement from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem try cleaning the keys with an old cloth or using a cleaner like Triflow. You may also try a spare key to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration, which may be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide into place. But, be careful not to scratch the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you should contact a locksmith to test the issue. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the entire thing. A locksmith can make an alternate key if the issue is with the key. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, the car will need to be brought to a repair shop to have it repaired. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to fix car ignition.

Check the Steering Wheel

A simple issue that could stop the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It could 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 and resting it against their body. It can also happen when an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.

This is a simple fix that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it shifts 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, an inspection of the steering column will tell whether the key is engaged with the lock. This is usually indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower part of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the lock or pulling it back with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use a spare key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can aid. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition and keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They can provide you with a replacement key and 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. Try removing any foreign material from the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You could also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

If the pins within the lock aren't moving in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, put it into the ignition and gently sliding it back out. This should let you feel and hear if the internal lock pins move, as they ought to. If not, you can grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy 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 also prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it has become worn or damaged which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn and prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this happens, you will need to take your car to a locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you can turn your 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. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of an hammer (not the head). Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will release it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

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

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

Before you try this, make sure that the car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. A lot of newer vehicles come with an electronic system that locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the ignition key from being turned.

If you have tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the correct steps.

Generally, this involves removal of the plastic cover which is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that are holding it in the position.

After removing the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they are identical. After this step is completed the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition will be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you determine the correct replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can start again.