9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition might be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

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

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there could be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter up or down to get the car ignition lock into the gear.

If it's still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic, or an auto locksmith in your area.

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key can wear out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant can help solve this problem by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape that is used to hold packages together. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. To fix car ignition this issue, you can try cleaning the key with the help of a cloth or a cleaner, like Triflow. It is also recommended to use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition.

When the key is in ignition you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This can cause a slight vibration, which may cause enough vibration to loosen the ignition's wafers 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 fail, it's likely to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the entire thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause then you'll have to bring the car to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. Luckily, these problems are typically very simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A simple issue that could stop the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they get out of the car.

Fortunately it's a simple fix and does not require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, check that the shifter is either in Park or neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter slowly until it shifts into one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick check of the steering column will reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much force, as it could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use an additional key to determine whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an appropriate replacement key.

If the new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can aid. Apply a small amount around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn't work, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They can provide you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

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

It is possible that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can try placing it in the ignition, then gently sliding it back out. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving within. If you don't feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key, and keep them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to connect with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your car. In this case you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you are able to turn your vehicle with an extra 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 attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of a Hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder will usually free it which allows you to turn your key and start your car ignition barrel replacement. If this does nothing will happen, you'll have to get your lock cylinder changed 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 is often covered in debris or simply the result of wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

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

If you have tried all of these methods and your key still won't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to note that different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally speaking, this involves removal of the plastic cover which is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners holding it in the position.

Once the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one that you bought with the original one to make sure they are an identical match. After this you can then install the new ignition cylinder in the same manner that you did with the old one.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you choose the right replacement and install it correctly so that your car can start again.