Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition could be stuck. The key could be dirty or have a broken wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder are stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it could be a problem with the transmission shifter switch. This can be fixed by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car in 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 fix these issues.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key will wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, can solve this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to fix this issue. You should also make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition cylinder lock repair.

You can also tap the key using a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition and car Ignition Lock allow them to slide in place. However, you should be cautious not to damage the key or the ignition cylinder.

If all of the above methods fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. The key might be broken in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be the time to replace it all. A locksmith can make an alternate key if the issue is with the key. If the ignition cylinder is the problem, you will need to bring the car Ignition lock to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A simple problem that can stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen if someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car.

Luckily it's an easy fix that does not require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, make sure the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it moves into one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, taking a look at the steering column will show whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to apply excessive force since it could damage the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use an alternate key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the original key has damaged and no longer able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil could aid. Simply spray a tiny amount of oil around the ignition and keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to engage. If this isn't working, you'll likely have to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

If the pins in the lock aren't moving in a proper manner when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, try placing it into the ignition and 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 lubricate the pins with powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case, you will need to bring your car to a locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you are able to turn your car ignition lock using a spare key and you have eliminated any issues with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to unlock the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder can often release it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out of position when it is inserted. It can get clogged up with debris, or just wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move forward.

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 not aligned. Be very careful to not overdo it, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

It is crucial to confirm whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park prior to attempting this. Many newer cars have the ability to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from turning into the ignition.

If you've tried all of the above and still can't get your key to rotate it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After the cover has been removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are the same. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the old one.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is advised to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will begin again.