Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working

An ignition lock is a security measure that prevents your car from starting until you have the original key. It activates when you use the wheel for assistance when getting in or out of your vehicle or touch it while parked.

It can also be triggered by vandalism or theft. If you're having difficulty turning your key, a few simple solutions could help:

The ignition switch

The ignition switch is a small piece of your car that's vital to driving it. It's among the first things you turn on when you start your vehicle and also powers many other systems. So when it doesn't work, it can be a major problem.

The primary reason that your car ignition switch might fail is because of wear and wear and tear. It is a possibility over time, particularly when you have other items on your keychain that weigh it down. You can avoid this by having separate sets of keys for your home and car, and also by decreasing the weight of your keychain. The other cause is mechanical problems. If the ignition cylinder is disaligned, it could make it difficult to remove or insert your key. If this is the situation you'll have to replace it.

In addition to these mechanical problems the ignition switch could be failing due to an electrical issue. There may be the smell of smoke or burning when you try to start your vehicle. If this happens it is important to get it replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Another reason why you may be unable to start your car is that the ignition switch is locked in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents anyone from removing your car key and re-starting it. Typically, this means you have too high pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't functioning properly.

In this instance, you can lubricate the lock to see if it improves. This will release any dirt particles that could be preventing the key from turning, so you can try it again. You can also use silicone-based lubricant to prevent dirt from accumulating in the lock. If you still have trouble, try wiggling the key before inserting it again.

The lock the cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder in automobiles is the part that has a mechanical structure that the key is put to start the car. The pins inside the cylinder can move up and down allowing the key to enter and turn. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers could fail or break and stop the key from turning. In the end, the cylinder could fail completely, resulting in a dead battery and other issues in the vehicle's starting.

Cylinder locks are the most common type of car lock. The outer shell has a cylindrical hole which houses the plug. The outer shell of a cylinder lock is generally constructed of steel. The plug is often bronze or brass. Cylinder locks can be found with a range of pins, which permit them to lock or unlock in multiple ways. Certain cylinder locks come with additional security features, such as snap-line pins or other pins to protect against lock bumping.

It is possible to tweak a difficult lock using graphite, however these methods don't last very long. A more reliable solution is to purchase a new ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by removing the old lock out of your car, and then replacing it with a brand new one. A new cylinder will require new keys.

Standard systems typically cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Some vehicles have electronic locks that are more costly to replace. It is crucial that the procedure for replacing an ignition cylinder is performed by an accredited professional. This is because it involves removing components that could interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags).

To perform the replacement, you'll need to disconnect the negative battery cable. This is important to prevent an accidental airbag deployment. It is also recommended to remove the airbag system when it's equipped with one. It is crucial to follow the instructions from the factory for repairs. You'll have to reset the anti-theft codes following installation of the new ignition lock. This will help prevent your Car Key Ignition Problems from being stolen, and it may require the use of a specific tool.

The key

If your key is turning but does not start the car it could be an indication that your ignition lock isn't functioning. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the right key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a mechanical component that works with an electrical component to "read" anti-theft coding to allow your vehicle to start. Over time the key could cause damage or wear to the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder, making it difficult to turn.

You can fix the ignition problem in your car ignition barrel replacement by employing a few basic troubleshooting methods. First, check that your key is in the proper position in the shifter, and that the indicator on the shifter is pointing at the P (Park) slot. If not, it could prevent the engine from starting, and a quick check with your auto dealer may be necessary to figure out the root of the problem.

You can also turn the ignition key, but don't apply too much pressure or force. This will allow for the release of any slight destruction to the wafer tumblers, which is hindering it from turning. If this fails, you can try lubricating the lock cylinder with a silicone-based lubricant to get it moving again.

You can locate these kinds of lubricants at the local auto parts store, but you should make sure you use a quality one that prevents dirt from accumulating and causing further problems in the future. If all else fails you will need to remove the ignition and replace it with a brand new one. This is a fairly simple process that most DIYers can follow with the aid of online guides or an auto repair manual.

If you've recently been convicted for a DUI or DWI the state you live in might require that you install an ignition interlock device (IID). These devices are intended to stop drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube prior to getting their car started. The device must be installed by a certified provider, like Intoxalock or LifeSafer.

The wiring

In many vehicles the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected with wires. When you insert the key into the ignition, current flows through these wires, triggering all electrical systems in your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't working or the switch has a problem staying on, it could be that the wire is disconnected. If you can't determine the cause of the problem you might need to replace the ignition switch or cylinder.

Interlock devices for ignition

A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that needs to be installed into your vehicle in order to meet a legal or criminal requirement. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath before the engine of the vehicle can be started. If the IID detects that the driver's BAC is higher than the allowed limit the horn sounds and/or flash lights, so that the driver is able to pull over and repeat the test.

Ignition interlocks can be a useful option for those suffering from alcohol-related disorders, since they require that the person blow into a mouthpiece prior starting the vehicle. They are small and discreet and can be concealed from sight to avoid drawing attention. Ignition interlocks are leased, not purchased outright and cost is between $60 and $90 per month.

The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are connected to control all of the electrical components in your vehicle. If any of these components are damaged or worn out the ignition won't start. If you are experiencing any of these issues it is essential to get them fixed as soon as you can.

If you are having trouble starting your vehicle, try placing the key in neutral or park and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you might need to disconnect the battery and then remove the airbag to access the ignition switch. This is typically a simple task, but it will require a steering wheel puller or a GM key removal tool, both of which can be rented through AutoZone's loan-a-tool service for free.