Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition could be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or car ignition lock has a broken wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.

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

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, it might be an issue with the shifter switch for the transmission. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter up or down to get the car into the gear.

If the car still won't turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable or shifter on the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. In time both the ignition and key can become worn out, making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, can solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the key using the help of a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow. You should also use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.

While the key is in ignition you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This will create a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide into position. You must be cautious not to harm either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above methods fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key may be damaged inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be time to replace it completely. If the problem is with the key the locksmith can make a new one for you. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car must be taken to a repair shop to have it repaired. These problems are usually easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themselves against it with their hands. It could also happen if an individual in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

Luckily it's an easy fix and does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it moves into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying to turn 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. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower part of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the key or pulling on it with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force as it could damage the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an additional key to determine whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the original key has worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an alternative key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work, you may 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, should it be necessary.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key has been damaged if it will not turn in the ignition. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it helps.

It's possible that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. You can test a spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition once you have put it in. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins move inside. If you don't feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place as you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and stop you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need to take your car to repair or locksmith shop for assistance.

If you can turn your car ignition key replacement using a spare key, and you have eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of an hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder can often release it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does nothing, you'll need to have your lock cylinder changed by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key can slide in and out when inserted. Most of the time, it gets gunked up with debris or as the result of wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move forward.

You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the cylinder for ignition, to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo this, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, make sure the gearbox of your car ignition lock is set to neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This can 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 likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then loosen any fasteners that hold it in place.

Once the cover has been removed, you will need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you will need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to ensure that they are identical. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you determine the correct replacement and install it correctly so that your car can start again.