Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons the ignition of your car ignition barrel replacement could be locked. The key may be dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can 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 solved by moving the switch upwards or downwards to get the car in gear.

If the car ignition replacement still won't turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter on the transmission. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can easily fix these problems.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time the ignition as well as the key can wear out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease could solve this issue, letting wafers to slide into the proper position.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, which prevents it from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue, you can try cleaning the keys with an old cloth or using a cleaner, like Triflow. You should also utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is with the ignition or ignition key won't come out the ignition.

When the key is in the ignition, you can tap it using a an hammer that is small. This will create a slight vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into place. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder or the key.

If all of the above solutions fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. It could be that the key has been damaged inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the entire thing. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can create a new one for you. If the ignition cylinder is the cause then you'll have to take the car to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. Luckily, these issues are usually very easy to fix.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A simple issue that could prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel and resting it against their body. It could also happen if a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

Luckily it's a simple fix and does not require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, make sure the shifter is either in Park or neutral. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked a quick look at the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower part of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much force as it could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an alternative key.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you will likely have to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They'll be able give you a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it aids.

If the pins in the lock do not move in a proper manner when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently removing it of the ignition after having put it in. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If you don't feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious problem with your key may be that it has damaged or worn out, ignition key won't come out making it unable to connect the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder to stop to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. In this instance you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you're able to turn your car with an extra key, and you have ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of the Hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder will usually free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key is inserted and slides out of place when you insert it. It could get blocked with debris, or just wear and wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.

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

Before you try this, make sure the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the van ignition repair key from being turned.

If you've tried all of the above and still can't get your key to turn, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

This typically involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need 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 have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one you have purchased with the previous one to make sure they're the same. Following this step is completed, you can install the new Ignition key won't come out cylinder the same way as the old one.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will help you select the proper replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle can be started again.