11 Ways To Completely Revamp Your Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, it could be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be easily solved by moving the switch upwards or downwards to get the car in the correct gear.

If it's still not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key will wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers to slide into the proper position.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. 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 key replacement you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This can cause a small vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. Be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key.

If all of the above options fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can make an alternative key in the event that the issue is with the key. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, the car must be taken to a repair shop to have it repaired. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A common issue that can hinder 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 usually caused by yanking the wheel and being able to hold it against their body. It could also happen if a passenger in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they get out of the vehicle.

This is a simple solution that doesn't require a trip to the locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake button or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick examination of the steering column should reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label is typically found in the lower portion the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling the lock or pulling it down with moderate force. It is essential not to use excessive force since this could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using a spare key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil could aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't help you, you might need to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

If you are unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. You can try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc.). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it aids.

If the pins inside the lock do not move in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key to test, you can try placing it into the ignition and gently removing it. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move as they should. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place when you insert the key and stop them from becoming stuck.

It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need bring your car to repair or locksmith shop for repair.

If you can turn your car on with an extra key, and you've ruled out any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder has been 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). A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it and allow you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does nothing will happen, you'll have to get your lock's cylinder replaced 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. It can get clogged up with dust, or simply wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.

You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure that the car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This will stop the ignition key from turning.

If you've tried all of this but not able to get your key to turn, it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the correct procedures.

This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that hold 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 compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they are the same. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition can be damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and then install it properly so that your car can begin again.