Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition might be stuck. The key might be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. This can be repaired by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins of the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

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

If the car doesn't turn, the issue could be related to the neutral safety cable or shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto ignition key replacement locksmith can fix these issues.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key may wear out, causing them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, could help solve this problem by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. To solve this problem, you can try cleaning the key using a cloth or using an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. You can also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.

While the key is in ignition, you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This will cause a small vibration, which could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into the right position. You should be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or the key.

If none of the above work, you should call a locksmith to check it out. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the entire thing. A locksmith can make an alternate key if the issue is the key. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it replaced. These issues are usually simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen when a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen when an individual in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.

This is a quick fix that doesn't involve a trip to the locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Park or neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should confirm that the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is crucial not to 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 may indicate that the original key has damaged 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 key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it could help. Apply a small amount around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then gently tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

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

If the pins in the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key to test, you can try placing it in the ignition, then gently removing it. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, as they should. If not, you can grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and prevent them from becoming stuck.

It could be that your key has worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your vehicle. In this instance you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you can turn your car using a spare key and you have eliminated any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder has been worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of the Hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will release it to allow you to turn the key of your car ignition lock (click here.). If this does nothing will happen, you'll have to get the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when inserted. Most of the time, it gets filled with debris or is due to wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

You can also use a small hammer to gently tap the interior 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 this, or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure the gearbox of your car is either in park or neutral. A lot of newer vehicles come with an electronic system that locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have done all of this but cannot get your key to rotate it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally speaking, this involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you'll 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 take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition key replacement cost cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they are the same. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same manner as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it's advised to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.