What's The Ugly The Truth About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your car ignition may be locked. The key may be dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly 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, it could be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter up or down to get the car in the gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix ignition switch these issues.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or G28carkeys remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, could help solve this problem by allowing the wafers slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem, you can try cleaning the keys with an old cloth or using a cleaner, such as Triflow. You should also utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

You could also tap the key using a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition which will allow them to slide in place. Be careful not to harm either the ignition key replacement cost cylinder or the key.

If all of the above options fail, it's likely to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key is broken inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the entire thing. Locksmiths can make an alternate key if the problem is the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car is required to be brought into a repair shop to have it repaired. Fortunately, these issues are usually very easy to solve.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A simple problem that can stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It could happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel as they exit or enter 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 accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.

Luckily it's an easy fix that doesn't require a trip an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, taking a look at the steering column will reveal 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 easily removed by gently jiggling the lock or pulling on it with moderate force. It is important to not use too much pressure as this could cause damage to the key or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another option is using an alternate key to see if it can disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key is damaged and no longer able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. If this is the case, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make a replacement key.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to get it working. If this does not work you, you might need to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They'll be able provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

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

It is possible that the internal lock pins 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. This should allow you to be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move as they should. If not, you could grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and also prevent them from becoming stuck.

It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your car. If this is the case you'll need take your car to an auto locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you are able to turn your car with a spare key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of a hammer (not the head). Often, tapping gently on the cylinder can free it to allow you to turn your car key. If this is not working then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. It can get clogged up with debris, or just wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

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

Before you try this, ensure that the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. A lot of newer vehicles come with an option to lock the steering wheel if 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 not able to get your key to turn it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

This typically involves removing the plastic cover 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 holding it in place.

After you have removed the cover, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to ensure that they are the same. Once this is done, the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it's recommended to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and then install it properly so that your vehicle can begin again.