Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. The key might be dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times.

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there could be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be fixed by moving the shifter up or down to get the car into gear.

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

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 remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers slide into place.

The key may become blocked with lint in your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to hold packages together. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow to fix this problem. It is also recommended to make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

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

If all of the above methods fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it could be the time to replace the entire thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the ignition cylinder is the issue, you will need to take the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. These issues are generally simple to solve.

Check the Steering Wheel

A simple problem that can stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This can happen if the driver is unable to engage it as they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It can also happen if a passenger in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they exit the vehicle.

Fortunately it's a simple fix that doesn't require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter slowly until it shifts into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will reveal whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much pressure as this can damage the key or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers in 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 aid. Apply a small amount around the ignition, and keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to work. If this doesn't work, you will likely have to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to give you a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. 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 aids.

If the pins within the lock aren't moving correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, put it in the ignition and gently pulling it out. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, which 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 will help the pins slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not turn and stop you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or repair shop for repair.

If you are able to turn your car using a spare key and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition and key replacement cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock by using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder can free it to allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when you insert it. Often times, it gets filled with debris or is due to wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use the small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset the pins that are not aligned. Be cautious not to overdo it as you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is essential to ensure whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park prior to attempting this. A lot of newer vehicles come with a system which locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This could 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 housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the correct procedures.

Generally, this involves removal of the plastic cover which is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in place.

Once the cover has been 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 you removed to confirm that they're identical. After this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the old one.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car can start again.