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 broken wafer inside it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder are stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning when the Car Ignition Lock Repair Near Me is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can fix this by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to put the vehicle into gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or the shifter in the transmission. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic, or a local locksmith for cars.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. In time both the ignition and key can wear out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, could help solve this problem by allowing the wafers slide into place.

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to keep packages in place. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow to fix this problem. It is also recommended to use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.

You could also tap the key using a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition and allow them to slide in place. Be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above solutions are unsuccessful, it's time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it completely. Locksmiths can make a replacement key in the event that the issue is with the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the problem then you'll have to bring the car to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. Luckily, these issues are usually very easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. This can happen if the driver accidentally engages it when they exit or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themselves against it with their hands. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

Fortunately it's an easy fix and doesn't require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, make sure the gear shift is in either Park or Neutral. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick examination of the steering column should reveal if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is usually indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since this can damage the key, or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an alternative key.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil can help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this isn't working, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local auto dealership. They will be able to provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it's possible that there is a problem with your key. 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 this aids.

It's possible that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, you can try placing it into the ignition and gently removing it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins move inside. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you can lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This should allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it has become worn or damaged and is unable to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case 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 because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of an hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this is not working it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. Often times, it gets covered in debris or simply a result of regular wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.

You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, in an effort to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, ensure that the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. A lot of newer cars come with the ability to lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from turning in the ignition.

If you've tried all of this but cannot get your key to rotate, it is likely that the ignition lock repair cylinder housing needs replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

This typically involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in the position.

Once the cover is removed, you will need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one that you purchased with the previous one to ensure that they're the same. After this step is completed, the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may be damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that when this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will start again.