9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons the ignition of your car could be locked. The key might be dirty or have a broken wafer in it. This can be repaired by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder are stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently 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 doesn't start when the key is turned on. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car in the correct gear.

If the car still won't turn, the issue could be with the neutral safety cable or transmission shifter. This can be easily solved by a mechanic, or a local automotive locksmith.

The ignition cylinder can also wear out. Over time, the ignition and the key may wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting the wafers slide into place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build up on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner like Triflow, to solve this problem. You should also use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition.

When the key is in the ignition, you can tap it with a a small piece of hammer. This will cause a small vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into place. You should be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above options fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it looked at. The key may be damaged in the cylinder of ignition or it could be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can make an alternative key if the problem is with the key. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle is required to be brought into a repair shop to get it replaced. These problems are usually easy to solve.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A common issue that can stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by yanking on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It could also happen if an individual in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they exit the vehicle.

This is a straightforward fix that doesn't involve a trip to the mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it shifts into one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will determine if the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. This is usually marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the key or pulling on it with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure since it could damage the key, or break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use a spare key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it may help. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition key replacement, and inserted keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it begins to work. If this does not work you, you might need to speak with a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able give you a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

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

It is possible that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can try putting it in the ignition, then gently removing it. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, as they should. If you don't feel any movement, you can lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This should allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key, and also prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it has become damaged or worn and is unable to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder to stop to turn, and prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or repair shop for repair.

If you can turn your car using a spare key and you have eliminated any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be that the ignition cylinder has been worn out. Try to open the lock with the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently can often release it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this does nothing, you'll need to have your lock's cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The lost ignition key socket is the place your key slides into and out of place when you insert it. It is often gunked up with debris or as a result of regular wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

You can also use the small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset pins that are out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this, or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.

It is crucial to confirm that your car Ignition lock's gearbox is set to park or neutral prior to attempting this. Many modern cars have a system that can stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from turning into the ignition.

If you've tried all of this and still not able to get your key to turn it is most likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the correct procedure.

Generally, this involves removal of the plastic cover which is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners that hold it in the position.

Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they are the same. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition can be damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will be able to assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will be able to start up again.