Why is My Car Ignition Lock Jammed Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition key replacement may be stuck. The key may be dirty or have a broken wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.

The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch up or down to get the car ignition switch repair into the correct gear.

If it is still not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily fix these problems.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease could solve this problem, allowing the wafers slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build over the key, which prevents it from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem try cleaning the key with the help of a cloth or a cleaner, like Triflow. You may also try a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the key.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that might cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. Be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If none of the above work, you should consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it completely. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can create a new key for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought to a repair shop to get it replaced. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to fix.

Check the Steering Wheel

A common issue that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This occurs when the driver is unable to engage it when they exit or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themself 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 quick fix that doesn't require a trip to the locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is either in Park or neutral. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will tell if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower area of the ignition barrel replacement near me circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the key or pulling on it with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since it could damage the key, or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is damaged and no capable of engaging the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

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

Check the Key

If you're 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, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it can help.

It's possible that the internal lock pins aren't working properly when you insert the key. You can test the spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after you put it in. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins move inside. If not, you could grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has become worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case, you will need to bring your car to repair or locksmith shop for assistance.

If you are able to turn your car with a spare key, and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Try to open the lock with the blunt screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Do not use the head. Gently tapping on the cylinder will often free it and allow you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work then you'll need the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of position when it is inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or simply wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.

You can also use a small hammer to 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.

Before you do this, ensure that the car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars come with a system which locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

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 is in need of replacement. It is important to know that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

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

After removing the cover you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one that you have purchased with the old one to ensure that they're the same. After this step is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same manner that you did with the old one.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it's advised to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you select the proper replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle can start again.