13 Things About Car Ignition Lock You May Not Have Considered

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

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

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is switched on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch upwards or downwards to get the car into the correct gear.

If it's not turning, the problem may be with the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic or by a local locksmith for cars.

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

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to hold packages together. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to fix this issue. You may also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.

While the key is in ignition you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This will cause a small vibration that could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide in the right position. You should be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above methods are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it looked at. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be the time to replace it all. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the car is required to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it repaired. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to stop turning. This occurs when the driver is unable to engage it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themselves against it with their hands. It can also happen if someone in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they get out of the vehicle.

Luckily, this is an easy fix that does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the shifter is either in Park or neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves 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, taking a look at the steering column will show whether the key is engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much force as this could cause damage to the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key can be used to disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key has worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key.

If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you will likely have to visit an expert at your local dealership for cars. They can provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.

Check the Key

If you are unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

If the pins within the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently pulling it out of the ignition after you insert it. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins move inside. If not, apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This should help the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and also prevent them from becoming stuck.

It could be that your key has damaged or worn out and isn't able to work with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not turn, which will prevent you from starting your car. In this case, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

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 has worn out. You can try to unlock the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car ignition switch repair key. If this does nothing, you'll need to have your lock cylinder changed by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or is due to wear and wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.

You can also use a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

It is essential to ensure that your car's gearbox is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. A lot of newer cars come with an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from being turned in the ignition.

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

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

Once the cover is removed, you will need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one you have purchased with the original one to ensure that they are an identical match. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you select the best replacement and then install it properly so that your car can start again.