Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside 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 with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is turned on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch up or down to get the car into the gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable or transmission shifter. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or a local locksmith for cars.

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key can become worn out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting the wafers to slide into the proper position.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build over the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. To solve this problem you can try cleaning the key with an old cloth or using an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. Also, you can utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.

While the key is in ignition you can tap it with a the hammer with a small amount. This can cause a slight vibration that could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and let them slide into place. However, you must be very careful not to damage the ignition key or cylinder.

If all of the above solutions fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it looked at. The key might be broken in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be the time to replace it all. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the ignition cylinder is the cause then you'll have to bring the car to a repair shop for it to be repaired. These issues are usually simple to solve.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. This occurs when the driver is unable to engage it when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing 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.

Luckily, this is an easy fix that doesn't require a trip locksmiths or mechanics. First, check that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter slowly until it moves into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked taking a look at the steering column will reveal whether the key is engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label can be found in the lower portion the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the lock or pulling on it with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since it could damage the key or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key.

If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it could aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't work, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They can provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.

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 rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

If the pins within the lock aren't moving correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after having insert it. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, as they ought to. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will help the pins 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 work with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you can turn your car on with a spare key, and you've ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to unlock the lock by using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder can free it and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this is not working it is necessary to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert 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 tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, make sure the gearbox of your car ignition lock is either in park or neutral. A lot of newer vehicles come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from being turned.

If you've tried all of this and still can't get your key to turn it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the correct steps.

Generally, this involves removing the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then loosen any fasteners that hold it in place.

After removing the cover you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to check the new one that you have purchased with the old one to ensure that they are a perfect match. Once this is done, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition will be damaged and require replacement. It is suggested that if this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle can be started again.