Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition may be stuck. The key could be dirty or have a broken wafer in it. This can be corrected by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when you insert the key into the ignition, it may be a problem with the shifter switch for the transmission. You can fix it by moving the gear shifter up or down to put the car into gear.

If it is still not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix ignition switch these problems.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key can become worn out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, could aid in solving this issue by allowing the 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 sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue, you can try cleaning the key with a cloth or using an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. You may also test a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the key.

You can also tap the key using a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration, which may be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into the right position. You should be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If none of the above works, you must consult a locksmith for help in figuring it out. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it may be time to replace the entire thing. A locksmith can make an alternative key if the problem is the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the cause then you'll need to take the car to a repair shop in order for Car Ignition Locked it to be replaced. These issues are generally simple to repair.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. This happens if the driver is unable to engage it when they exit or enter the vehicle. It is typically caused by pulling on the wheel and securing themselves against it with their hands. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

This is a quick solution that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it changes into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, an inspection of the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label can be found in the lower portion the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling it or pulling on it with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.

If the key does not engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it could help. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition, and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn't work you, it's possible to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and can also replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

It could be that your key may be damaged if it does not turn in the ignition. 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 it aids.

It could be that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. 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 not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be put into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder to stop to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case, you will need to take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you are able to turn your car using an extra key and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock by using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work will happen, you'll have to get your lock's cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key slides in and out of position when it is inserted. Often times, it gets covered in debris or is a result of regular wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use the small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, make sure that the car's gearbox is in neutral or park. Many newer cars come with a system which locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or park. This will stop the ignition key from being turned.

If you've done all of this but cannot get your key to rotate it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder needs replacement. It is important to know that different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners that are holding it in the position.

After you have removed the cover, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one that you have purchased with the old one to ensure that they are an identical match. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition can be damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and then install it correctly, so that your car ignition switch repair will be able to start up again.