Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

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

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is turned on. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to put the vehicle into the correct gear.

If it's not turning, the problem could be related to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily fix these problems.

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

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the keys using a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow to resolve this problem. You should also make use of a spare key to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition key replacement cost. This can cause a slight vibration, which could be enough to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide in place. You should be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or key.

If none of the above work, you should consult a locksmith for help in figuring it out. It could be that the key has been damaged inside the ignition or it may be time to replace the entire thing. If the problem is with the key the locksmith can create a new one for you. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought into a repair shop to have it replaced. Luckily, these issues are usually very easy to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This occurs when the driver is unable to engage it while exiting or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It could also happen if an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.

Luckily, this is an easy fix ignition switch 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, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should determine if the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. This is typically indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling the lock or pulling on it with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure since this could cause damage to the key, Car Ignition Locked or even break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local auto dealership. They'll be able to give you a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it's possible that there is a problem with your key. You can get rid of 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 this helps.

If the pins inside the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key to test, you can try placing it in the ignition, then gently sliding it back out. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving inside. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious issue with your key may be that it has become worn or damaged which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn, which will prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or Car Ignition Locked repair shop for assistance.

If you can turn your vehicle with an extra key and you've 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 blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of a Hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this does not work then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key slides in and out of place when inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or simply wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, ensure that the car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. A lot of newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from turning into the ignition.

If you've done all of this but can't get your key to turn it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After removing the cover you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one that you bought with the previous one to make sure they're the same. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same way that you did with the old one.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you choose the right replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.