How To Explain Car Ignition Lock To Your Grandparents

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition might be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. It is possible to fix ignition switch this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.

The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

If the 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. It is possible to fix the issue by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to put the car ignition barrel replacement into gear.

If it is still not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can fix these issues.

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key can wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers slide into place.

The key could get clogged with lint in your pockets as well as adhesive from tape that is used to keep packages in place. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow, to solve this issue. You may also try a spare key to determine if the problem is with the ignition or the key.

When the key is in the ignition you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. This will create a slight vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition which will allow them to slide in place. But, be cautious not to scratch the ignition key or cylinder.

If all of the above solutions are unsuccessful, it's time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it may be time to replace the entire thing. Locksmiths can create an alternate key in the event that the issue is with the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the problem then you'll have to take your car to a repair shop for it to be repaired. Fortunately, these issues are generally easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition lock repair to not turn. It can 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 resting it against their body. It could also happen if an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

Luckily, this is an easy fix that doesn't require a trip an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not you can 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 prior to turning the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label can be found in the lower portion the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure, as this can damage the key or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use a spare key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the original key has worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an alternative key.

If the new key still does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't help you, it's possible to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to provide you with a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary.

Check the Key

It could be that your key is damaged if it will not engage in the ignition. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it can help.

If the pins in the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can put 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 can grease the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it is damaged or worn which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to stop turning and stop you from starting your car. In this instance you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

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 attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of an Hammer (not the head). Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will loosen it and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does not work then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when you insert it. It could get blocked with debris, or just wear and wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use the small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, make sure that the gearbox of your car ignition lock is in neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have done all of this but not able to get your key to rotate it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder is in need of replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition and key replacement cylinder.

Generally, this means removing the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners holding it in place.

After removing 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're identical. After this you can then install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the old one.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that when this happens you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you determine the correct replacement and then install it properly so that your car can restart.