Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition may be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder are stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the car into the correct gear.

If the car ignition lock still won't turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable, or the transmission shifter. A mechanic or local auto ignition key replacement locksmith can easily fix these problems.

The ignition cylinder can also be worn out. Over time, both the ignition and key may wear out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, could aid in solving this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into place.

The key can become clogged by lint from 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 key with a cloth, or car Ignition lock a cleaner, such as Triflow to fix this issue. You should also use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.

When the key is in ignition you can tap it with a the hammer with a small amount. This will create a slight vibration that might be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition which will allow them to slide in place. However, you should be very careful not to damage the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the above works, you must call a locksmith to check the issue. The key might be broken inside the ignition cylinder or it could be time to replace it altogether. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the cylinder for the ignition is the problem then you'll have to take your car to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. These issues are usually simple to repair.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A simple problem that can hinder the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. This happens if the driver is unable to engage it when 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 a passenger in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

Fortunately it's an easy fix that doesn't require a trip a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked a quick look at the steering column will reveal whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically indicated by a small "Lock" label on the lower part of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the lock or pulling on it with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key may also be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an alternative key.

If the key does not engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it might aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this isn't working, you'll probably need to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

If you are unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it's possible that there is a problem with your key. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

It's possible that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after you insert it. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move as they ought to. If not, grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be 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 cylinder in the ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need bring your car ignition switch to a locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you're able to turn your car on with a spare key, and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to unlock the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will loosen it to allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does not work then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with dust, or simply wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the cylinder for ignition, in an effort to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, ensure that the gearbox of your car is set to neutral or park. Many modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from being turned into the ignition.

If you have tried all of these steps but your key is still unable to turn, it's possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to note that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

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

After the cover has been removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they are the same. After this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder the same way as the old one.

Sometimes, Car ignition lock despite our efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help choose the right replacement and install it correctly so that your vehicle can begin again.