Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.

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

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there may be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be solved by moving the switch up or down to put the car ignition switch replacement in gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the problem could be due to the neutral safety cable, or the transmission shifter. They can be fixed by a mechanic or a local locksmith for cars.

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

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the keys using a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow, to solve this issue. You could also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition which will allow them to slide into place. But, be cautious not to scratch the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above works, you must call a locksmith to check the issue. The key might be broken in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be time to replace it completely. A locksmith can make a replacement key if the issue is the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, the car is required to be brought into a repair shop to get it replaced. Fortunately, these issues are generally easy to solve.

Check the Steering Wheel

A simple problem that can 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 usually caused by yanking on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It could also happen if someone in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they exit the vehicle.

This is a straightforward fix that doesn't involve going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it moves into one of these positions. It's also important 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 typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label in the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is essential not to apply excessive force since this could cause damage to the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside 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 key still doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it may help. Simply spray a tiny amount of oil around the ignition and keyhole, then gently tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this does not work, you may need to seek out a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a replacement key and can also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key may be damaged if it will not turn on. Try removing any foreign material from the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it helps.

If the pins in the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, put it in the ignition and gently pulling it out. 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 can apply lubrication using graphite powder. 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 keep them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key could be that it has become worn or damaged and is unable to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This can cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, preventing you from starting your car ignition lock (read article). In this situation, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto locksmith ignition replacement repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you can turn your vehicle with a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is 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 will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

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

You can also use a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be very careful to not overdo it, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is essential to ensure whether your car's transmission is set to park or neutral prior to attempting this. A majority of modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned.

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

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

After removing the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they are the same. After this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder the same way that you did with the old one.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition can 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 install it properly to ensure that your vehicle can start again.