10 Things That Your Family Teach You About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My car ignition lock Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. This can be repaired by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

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

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there may be an issue with the shifter switch for the transmission. This can be easily fixed by moving the shifter up or down to get the car in the gear.

If the car still won't turn, the problem could be due to the neutral safety cable or transmission shifter. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily fix these issues.

The ignition cylinder can also wear 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 grease can address this issue, letting the wafers slide into place.

The key could get 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. Clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow, to solve this issue. You can also test a spare key to determine if the issue is the key or ignition.

When the key is in the ignition, you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. 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 very careful not to scratch the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you should call a locksmith to check it out. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it may be time to replace the entire thing. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can create a new one for you. If the cylinder for the ignition is the problem then you'll need to bring the car to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to solve.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to stop turning. This occurs when the driver has a mistake and engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by yanking on the wheel while supporting themselves against it with their hands. It can also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they get out of the car.

This is a simple fix that doesn't involve a trip to the mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, an inspection of the steering column will show whether the key is engaged with the lock. does a new ignition switch require a new key small "Lock label is typically located in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the key or pulling on it with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure, as this can damage the key or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another option is using an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

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

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it's possible that something is wrong with your key. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this helps.

It could be that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after having put it in. This should allow you to be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you can grease them with graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This should allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and keep them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue is that it is damaged or worn which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this case you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you can turn your car 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 try to unlock the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Don't use the head. Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will release it to allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have your lock cylinder changed by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key slides into and out of place when you insert it. It could get blocked with dust, or simply wear and 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 cylinder for ignition, in an effort to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it or you may cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is crucial to confirm that your car's gearbox is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. Many newer cars come with an electronic system that locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you've tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is crucial to follow the correct steps.

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 to its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners that hold it in the position.

After the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to compare the new one you bought with the old one to make sure they are an identical match. After this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same manner as the old one.

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 a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help choose the right replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.