15 Best Pinterest Boards To Pin On All Time About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition could be stuck. The key could be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

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

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is turned on. This can be repaired by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car in gear.

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

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out, making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers slide into place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build up on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow, to solve this problem. You could also try a spare key in order to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will cause a small vibration that could be enough to loosen up the wafers inside 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 none of the above work, you should contact a locksmith to test it out. It could be that the key is damaged in the ignition, or it could be the time to replace the entire thing. If the problem is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the ignition cylinder replacement near me cylinder is the issue, you will need to take the car to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel as they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.

Fortunately it's an easy fix that doesn't require a trip a mechanic or a locksmith. First, make sure 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. It's also important to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying 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 on the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much force as it could damage the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an alternate key to see if it can disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key.

If the new key still won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil could aid. Apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to work. If this does not work, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to give you a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

It could be that your key has been damaged if it will not engage in the ignition. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

It's possible that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, you can put it in the ignition and gently removing it. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins move inside. If you don't feel any movement, you could grease them with graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into position when you insert the key, and also prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem is that it is damaged or worn which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn, which will prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case, you will need to take your car to repair or locksmith shop for assistance.

If you're able to turn the car using a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Try to open the lock by using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will release it and allow you to turn your car key. 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 the place your key slides in and out of place when inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or simply wear and wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

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

Before you do this, ensure that the car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This could prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have done all of the above and still can't get your key to turn it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally speaking, this involves removing the plastic cover that covers 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 place.

After removing the cover you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to check the new one you have purchased with the previous one to ensure that they're the same. After this step is completed, 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 require to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can start again.