Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch up or down to put the car into the correct gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the issue could be with the neutral safety cable or the shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can fix these issues.

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

The key may become blocked with lint in your pockets and 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 keys with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow, to solve this problem. It is also recommended to use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration that could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into the right position. Be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder or key.

If none of the above work, you need to call a locksmith to check the issue. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the whole thing. A locksmith can make a replacement key in the event that the issue is the key. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, your car must be taken to a repair ignition lock cylinder shop in order to have it repaired. Fortunately, these issues are generally easy to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. This occurs when the driver accidentally engages 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 could also happen if a passenger in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they get out of the vehicle.

This is a straightforward fix that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will tell whether the key is engaged with the lock. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label in the lower area of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling it or pulling on it with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure since it could damage the key or break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an alternate key to see if it can disengage the lock. This could mean that the original key has worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an alternative key.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may aid. Just apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn't work you, you might need to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to provide you with a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder should it be necessary.

Check the Key

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

It is possible 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 after having put it in. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If not, you could lubricate the pins with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of mobile ignition lock repair services to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this situation, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you can turn your vehicle with a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to unlock the lock with an abrasive screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Don't use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it and allow you to turn the key of your Car Ignition Lock. If this doesn't work it is necessary to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of position when it is inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or just wear and wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

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

Before you try this, make sure that the gearbox of your car is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you've tried all of the above and still cannot get your key to rotate it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is crucial to follow the correct procedure.

Generally speaking, this involves removing the plastic cover that is 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 unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in place.

Once the cover is removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one that you bought with the previous one to ensure that they are a perfect match. Once this is done, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will assist you in selecting the right replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will be able to start up again.