Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

The pins of the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it could be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the car into the correct gear.

If it is still not turning, the problem could be related to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic or by an auto locksmith in your area.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, both the ignition and key can wear out, making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like 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 tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth, or Car Ignition Locked a cleaner, such as Triflow to resolve this problem. It is also recommended to use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.

When the key is in the ignition you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. This will create a slight vibration that might be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into position. However, you must be cautious not to damage the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above works, you must call a locksmith to check the issue. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it altogether. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith can create a new one for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, your car is required to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it replaced. Luckily, these problems are generally easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A simple issue that could stop 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 typically caused by pulling on the wheel and securing themself against it using their hands. It can also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.

Fortunately it's a simple fix and does not require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it shifts into one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick examination of the steering column should determine if the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower part of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much force, as it could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it might help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this isn't working, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key may be damaged if it will not engage in the ignition. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

It could be that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, try putting it in the ignition, then gently removing it. This should allow you to be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move as they should. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key, and keep them from becoming stuck.

It could be that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to work with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you're able to turn the car with a spare key ignition replacement, and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to loosen the lock by using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder can often release it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this is not working then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

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

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

It is essential to ensure whether your car's transmission is set to park or neutral prior to attempting this. Many newer cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from turning in the ignition.

If you've tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is important to follow the correct procedure.

This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then loosen any fasteners holding it in place.

Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one that you purchased with the previous one to make sure they're the same. After this step is completed, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will be able to help you select the proper replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car can start again.