Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your car ignition may be locked. The key could be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. This can be corrected by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

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

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it might be a problem with the transmission shifter switch. It is possible to fix the issue by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to put the car into the correct gear.

If it is still not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic or a local locksmith for cars.

It's 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 such as silicon lock lubricant, can solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build over the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To solve this problem try cleaning the key using a cloth or using an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. You may also try a spare key in order to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.

While the key is in the ignition you can tap it with an hammer that is small. This can cause a small vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition and allow them to slide into place. You must be cautious not to scratch the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above methods fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it altogether. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the cylinder for the ignition is the problem then you'll need to take the car to a repair shop for it to be replaced. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to repair.

Check the Steering Wheel

A simple issue that could hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This can happen if the driver is unable to engage it while exiting or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It can also happen if someone in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

Fortunately, this is an easy fix that does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter gently until it shifts into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to attempting 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 marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply excessive force since it could damage the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use an additional key to determine whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is damaged and no more able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it might help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't help you, you might need to speak with a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder if necessary.

Check the Key

If you are unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it's possible that there is a problem with your key. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint and 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. You can test the spare key by gently pulling it out of the ignition once you have insert it. This should allow you to be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If not, grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and keep them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key may be that it is damaged or worn, making it unable to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder to stop to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case you'll need bring your car ignition barrel replacement to repair or locksmith shop for assistance.

If you're able to turn the car with a spare key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to unlock the lock using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will loosen it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this is not working, you will need to have 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 position when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets gunked up with debris or as the result of wear and wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the lost ignition key to make things move forward.

You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is important to check that your car's gearbox is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. A lot of newer cars come with a system that can stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from being turned into the ignition.

If you've done all of the above and still can't get your key to turn it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After removing the cover you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to check the new one that you have purchased with the old one to ensure that they're the same. After this step is completed the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, the ignition could be damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith ignition replacement cost can help choose the right replacement and install it correctly so that your vehicle can begin again.