Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside. You can fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder many times.

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

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can fix this by moving the gear shifter up or down to get the car into the correct gear.

If it is still not turning, the problem may be with the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or by an auto locksmith in your area.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key will wear out, causing them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, can aid in solving this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. To fix this issue, you can try cleaning the key with an old cloth or using an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. You can also try a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.

While the key is in ignition you can tap it with a a small piece of hammer. This will create a tiny vibration, which could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into the right position. You should be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key.

If all of the above options are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be the time to replace it all. Locksmiths can make an alternate key if the issue is with the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the problem then you'll need to take the car ignition switch to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These issues are generally simple to solve.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A simple issue that could stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It can also happen if an individual in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they exit the vehicle.

Luckily, this is an easy fix car ignition that doesn't require a trip locksmiths or mechanics. First, check that the shifter 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. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will reveal whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually marked by a tiny "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 use too much pressure as this can damage the key, or even break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it might help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work, you may need to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

It could be that your key is damaged if it does not engage in the ignition. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it can help.

It is possible that the internal lock pins aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key that you want to test, try putting it in the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If not, you can lubricate the pins with powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue is that it has worn or damaged which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case, you will need to take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you are able to turn your car using a spare key, and you've ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has been worn out. Try to open the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder can often release it and allow you to turn your key and start your car ignition lock (Discover More Here). If this does a new ignition switch require a new key not work then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when you insert it. Most of the time, it gets gunked up with debris or is due to wear and wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

You can also use the small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset pins that are out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or 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. Many newer cars have an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from turning in the ignition.

If you've tried all of these methods and your key still won't turn, it could be that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then loosen any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After removing the cover you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are the same. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can begin again.