The Complete Guide To Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer in it. This can be fixed by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

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

Check the Battery

If the car ignition key replacement is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when you insert the key into the lost ignition key, it might be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the vehicle into the gear.

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

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key may wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting wafers to slide into the proper position.

The key could get clogged with lint in your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to hold packages together. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue you can try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. You can also try a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the key.

You could also tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen up the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into place. You must be cautious not to harm either the ignition cylinder or the key.

If all of the above options are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it examined. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the whole thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle will need to be brought into a repair shop to get it replaced. Luckily, these problems are typically very simple to solve.

Check the Steering Wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel while resting it against their body. It can also happen if someone in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they get out of the vehicle.

Luckily it's a simple fix and doesn't require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, make sure the gear shift is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it shifts into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force, as it could damage the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use a spare key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key has worn out and is no capable of engaging the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the key 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 get it working. If this doesn't help, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to give you a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

If you're 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 this helps.

If the pins within the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can try placing it into the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving within. If you don't feel any movement, you could grease them with graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This should help the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and also prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this situation, you'll need to bring your Vehicle locksmith to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you're able to turn the car with a spare key and you've ruled out 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 by using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of an hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it and allow you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does not work then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key slides in and out when inserted. Most of the time, it gets filled with debris or simply due to wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

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

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

If you have tried all of these steps and your key doesn't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. It is important to know that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally speaking, this involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in place.

After the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then important to check the new one that you bought with the previous one to ensure that they are a perfect match. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it's advised to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will be able to help you select the proper replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.