Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition could be stuck. The key might be dirty or have a broken wafer inside it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder many times.

The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

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

If it's still not turning, the problem may be with the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, both the ignition and key can wear out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant can aid in solving this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys using a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow, to solve this issue. You may also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.

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

If all of the above options are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can create a replacement key if the issue is with the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought into a repair shop to have it repaired. Luckily, these problems are typically very simple to repair.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to not turn. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by yanking on the wheel and securing themselves against it with their hands. It could also happen if an individual in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they exit the vehicle.

This is a straightforward solution that doesn't require a trip to the mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure the gear shift is in either Park or Neutral. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, taking a look at the steering column will reveal if the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling the lock or pulling it down with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure, as it could damage the key, or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can assist. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this doesn't work, you will likely need to see a specialist at your local auto dealer. They can supply you with a replacement key and also replace the mobile ignition lock repair services cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

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

If the pins inside the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, try putting it in the ignition and gently removing it. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move as they should. If not, apply lubrication to the pins using powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be put into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious issue is that it has become damaged or worn out, making it unable to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this case you'll have to take your car ignition lock to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you're able to turn the car using a spare key, and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of a Hammer (not the head). A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your car. If this does not work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when you insert it. Most of the time, it gets gunked up with debris or simply due to wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.

You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

It is essential to ensure that your car's transmission is set to park or neutral prior to attempting this. A lot of newer vehicles come with an electronic system that locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you've tried all of these methods and your key still won't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is important to follow the correct steps.

Generally, this involves taking off 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 setting and then loosen any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After the cover has been removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one you bought with the old 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 previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may be damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that if this happens, you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.