Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. The key might be dirty or may have a damaged wafer in it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when you insert the key into the ignition, it could be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. You can fix it by moving the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the vehicle into the correct gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or shifter on the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily fix these problems.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key can wear out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting wafers to slide into the proper position.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tape that holds packages together can build on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow to fix this problem. Also, you can use a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

You could also tap the key using a small hammer while it's in the ignition key repair. This will cause a small vibration, which may cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into place. However, you must be cautious not to harm the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.

If all of the above methods fail, it's likely to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key is broken inside the ignition or it may 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 issue is with the ignition lock repair cylinder, the car must be taken into a repair shop to get it replaced. These issues are usually simple to solve.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A simple issue that could prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. This happens if the driver has a mistake and engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling on the wheel and securing themself against it using their hands. It could also happen when a passenger in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they get out of the vehicle.

Fortunately it's a simple fix and doesn't require a trip locksmiths or mechanics. First, check that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter slowly until it changes into one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick check of the steering column will reveal if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label can be located in the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much pressure as this can damage the key or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to disengage the lock. This could mean that the original key has damaged and no more able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an alternative key.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil can aid. Apply a small amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this isn't working, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local auto dealer. They'll be able to give you a new key and replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary.

Check the Key

If you are unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it helps.

It is possible that the lock pins inside are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test the spare key by gently pulling it out of the ignition after you put it in. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, which they should. If not, grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy 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 also prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to connect with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. In this instance you'll need to take your car ignition replacement near me to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you are able to turn your 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. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of a Hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder can often release it and allow you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work then you'll need your lock's cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key slides in and out when you insert it. It could get blocked with debris, or simply wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

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

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

If you've done all of the above and still cannot get your key to rotate it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they're identical. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, the ignition can be damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will be able to assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your car can be started again.