Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition could be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. You can fix ignition switch 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 use a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

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

If the car still won't turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or shifter on the transmission. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic, or an auto locksmith in your area.

The ignition cylinder may also wear out. Over time the ignition as well as the key may wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can address this problem, allowing the wafers to slide into the proper position.

The key can become clogged with lint in your pockets as well as adhesive from tape that is used to hold packages together. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue, you can try cleaning the key with an old cloth or using an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. You may also try a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.

You could also tap the key using a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide into place. But, be careful not to harm the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the above works, you must call a locksmith to check it out. The key may be damaged in the cylinder of ignition or it could be time to replace it completely. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. If the ignition cylinder is the issue then you'll have to bring the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A simple issue that could prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It can also happen when someone in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.

This is a simple fix that doesn't involve a trip to the locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it moves into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick check of the steering column will reveal if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower area of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the key or pulling it back with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure, as this can damage the key, or break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

A spare key can be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key has worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this isn't working, you'll likely have to visit an expert at your local auto dealership. They'll be able provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

It could be that your key may be damaged if it does not engage in the ignition. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You could also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it helps.

If the pins within the lock do not move properly 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 putting it in the ignition and gently pulling it out. This should allow you to feel and hear if the internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If not, you can grease the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key may be that it has become damaged or worn out, making it unable to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or repair ignition lock cylinder shop for service.

If you are able to turn your car ignition replacement with a spare key, and you've ruled out any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. Try to open the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this does not work then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition lock repair socket is where your key can slide in and out when inserted. It could get blocked with dust, or simply wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.

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 not aligned. Be cautious not to overdo it, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

It is crucial to confirm whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park 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 cannot get your key to turn it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is crucial to follow the correct procedure.

Generally speaking, this involves removal of the plastic cover which covers 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 holding it in the position.

After removing the cover you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they're identical. After this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is advised to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will begin again.