How To Resolve Issues With Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when you insert the key into the ignition, it could be a problem with the shifter switch for the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to put the car into gear.

If it's not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. This can be easily solved by a mechanic, or a local locksmith for cars.

The ignition cylinder may also be worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key may wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting wafers to slide into the proper position.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue try cleaning the key with a cloth or using a cleaner such as Triflow. Also, you can use a spare key to determine if the issue is related to the key or the ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen up the ignition's wafers and let them slide into place. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder or key.

If all of the above options fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key could be damaged within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it completely. Locksmiths can make a replacement key if the issue is the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the cause, you will need to bring the car to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to repair.

Check the Steering Wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. This occurs when the driver accidentally engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle and is typically caused by pulling on the wheel and securing themself against it using their hands. It could also happen if someone in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

This is a quick fix that doesn't require an appointment with a locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter slowly until it changes into one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick check of the steering column should determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is typically indicated by a small "Lock" label on the lower portion of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is important not to apply excessive force since this could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an alternate key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil could assist. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to get it working. If this doesn't work, you will likely need to see an expert at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this helps.

If the pins inside the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test the spare key by gently pulling it out of the ignition once you have insert it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place as you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it is worn or damaged which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, preventing you from starting your car. In this case you'll have to take your car to an auto locksmith ignition replacement repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you can turn your car with an extra key, and you have eliminated any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to unlock the lock with a blunt screwdriver or a handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

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

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

Before you attempt this, make sure that the gearbox of your Car Ignition System Repair 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 and still can't get your key to rotate, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is important to follow the correct procedures.

Generally speaking, this involves 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 that are holding it in place.

Once the cover is removed, you'll have to take the old ignition key replacement cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one that you bought with the old one to ensure that they're the same. After this step is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same way that you did with the old one.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition may become damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that if this happens you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle can be started again.