How The 10 Worst Car Ignition Lock Fails Of All Time Could Have Been P…

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can fix ignition switch it by moving the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the car into the correct gear.

If it's still not turning, the problem could be related to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.

The ignition cylinder can also be worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key may wear out, which causes 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.

The key could get clogged with lint in your pockets and adhesive from tape used to hold packages together. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow to fix this problem. You may also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer, while it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide into place. However, you must be careful not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you should contact a locksmith to test the issue. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it may be time to replace the whole thing. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can create a new key for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, your car must be taken to a repair shop to have it repaired. Luckily, these problems are usually very easy to repair.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A simple problem that can stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It could happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It can also happen if a passenger in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.

Luckily it's an easy fix and does not require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick examination of the steering column will determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another option is using a spare key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the case, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it could aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this doesn't help you, it's possible to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to provide you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it can help.

If the pins in the lock aren't moving correctly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after having put it in. You should be able to hear and feel the pins move inside. If you don't feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place as you insert the key, and will prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it has worn or damaged, making it unable to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This may cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this case you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you can turn your vehicle with a spare key, and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver or handle of an hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will loosen it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does nothing then you'll need the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of position when it is inserted. It can get clogged up with debris, or simply wear and wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

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

Before you try this, ensure that the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the ignition key from turning.

If you've tried these steps and your key still won't turn, it could be that the ignition housing has to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that hold it in the position.

After you have removed the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to check the new one you have purchased with the old one to ensure that they're the same. Following this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder the same way that you did with the old one.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, the ignition could be damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it's advised to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you select the best replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will begin again.