Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition might be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. You can fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

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

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the car is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is turned on. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to put the vehicle into the correct gear.

If it is still not turning, the problem may be with the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or by a local automotive locksmith.

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

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To resolve this issue, you can try cleaning the key using the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. You may also try a spare key to determine if the issue is the ignition or the key.

While the key is in the ignition you can tap it with a a small piece of hammer. This will create a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition and allow them to slide in place. However, you must be careful not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.

If all of the above methods fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder or it could be the time to replace it all. Locksmiths can create a replacement key in the event that the issue is the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the issue then you'll have to bring the car to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Check the Steering Wheel

A simple issue that could prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It may also happen when an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.

Luckily, this is an easy fix that doesn't require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, check that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it changes into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or turn on the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick check of the steering column should determine if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much pressure as this could cause damage to the key or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key may also be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no longer able to 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 new key won't engage, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work you, you might need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They can supply you with a replacement key and can also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this can help.

It is possible that the internal lock pins aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, try putting it in the ignition, then gently pulling it out. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key may be that it has damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you're able to turn your car using a spare key and you have eliminated any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of the hammer (not the head). Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will release it to allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does a new ignition switch require a new key nothing, 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 of position when it is inserted. Often times, it gets covered in debris or simply the result of wear and wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use the small hammer and tap very gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset the pins that are not aligned. Be very careful to not overdo it, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, make sure your car's gearbox is in neutral or park. Many modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from turning in the ignition.

If you've tried all of these methods and your key doesn't turn, it could be that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is important to follow the correct procedures.

This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in the position.

Once the cover is removed, you'll need to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to make sure that they are the same. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same way that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's advised to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car can be started again.