Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

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

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it might be an issue with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be solved by moving the switch up or down to put the car in the gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter on the transmission. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or an auto locksmith in your area.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key will wear out, causing them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting the wafers to slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build up on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the key with the help of a cloth or a cleaner, like Triflow. Also, you can make use of 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 cause a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. But, be careful not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the above work, you should consult a locksmith for car Ignition lock help in figuring it out. It could be that the key is damaged in the ignition, or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, the car will need to be brought into a repair shop to have it replaced. These issues are generally simple to fix.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking the wheel and being able to hold it against their body. It can also happen if someone in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

Fortunately, this is an easy fix and doesn't require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is in either Park or car ignition Lock Neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it moves into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should determine if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling it or pulling it back with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key has damaged and no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case.

If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it may help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't work you, it's possible to speak with a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

It could be that your key is damaged if it does not turn on. You can clean 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. You can test the spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition once you have insert it. You should be able to hear and feel the pins move inside. If you don't feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This should help the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and keep them from becoming stuck.

It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not turn and stop you from starting your vehicle. In this case you'll need to take your car to an auto repair ignition lock cylinder shop or locksmith for service.

If you're able to turn your car ignition lock using an extra key, and you have ruled out any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to loosen the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Do not use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your car. If this does not work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or as due to wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

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

It is essential to ensure that your car's gearbox is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. Many newer cars come with a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in 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 most likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is crucial to follow the correct steps.

This usually involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove this, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then loosen any fasteners that are holding it in place.

Once the cover is removed, you will need to remove the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to ensure that they are identical. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the old one.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is advised to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will start again.