Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder are stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there could be an issue with the shifter switch on the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by moving the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the car into the gear.

If it's still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time, both the ignition and key can wear out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, can help solve this problem by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

The key could get clogged by lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape used to hold packages together. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the key using the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. Also, you can make use of a spare key to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.

When the key is in the ignition, you can tap it with the hammer with a small amount. This will cause a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. However, you must be cautious not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above works, you must contact a locksmith to test the issue. The key might be broken inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can make an alternative key if the problem is the key. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, your car must be taken to a repair shop to get it replaced. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A simple problem that can stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This occurs when the driver is unable to engage it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It can also happen if someone in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

Luckily, this is an easy fix and does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it changes into one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should confirm that the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label can be found in the lower portion the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the key or pulling it back with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure since it could damage the key, or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another option is using an additional key to determine whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case.

If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't help you, you might need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They'll be able provide you with a new key, and will 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's possible that there is a problem with your key. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.

If the pins within the lock do not move in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test the spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition once you have insert it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins move inside. If not, you could grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place as you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has damaged or worn out and isn't able to work with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder of ignition to not turn and prevent you from starting your car ignition key replacement. In this case you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you are able to turn your car ignition replacement near me with a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of a hammer (not the head). Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does not work, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or simply wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.

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

Before you do this, ensure that the car ignition switch replacement's gearbox is set to neutral or park. Many newer cars have a system that can stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral and prevent the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you have tried all of these steps and your key doesn't turn, it could be that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is important to follow the correct steps.

Generally, this means taking off 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, remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After you have removed the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are identical. After this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same way as the old one.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you select the proper replacement and install it properly, so that your car can start again.