Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition may be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside. You can fix ignition switch it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

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

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. This can be repaired by moving the shifter up or down to put the car in the gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be related to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter on the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, can solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem, you can try cleaning the key with the help of a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow. You may also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.

You can also tap the key using a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration, which may cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into the right position. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder replacement near me cylinder or key.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to contact a locksmith to test it out. The key might be broken in the cylinder of ignition or it could be time to replace it completely. If the problem is with the key the locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, the car is required to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it replaced. Luckily, these issues are usually very easy to repair.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. This can happen if the driver is unable to engage it when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking on the wheel and securing themself against it using their hands. It can also happen if a passenger in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they get out of the vehicle.

This is a straightforward fix that doesn't require going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick look at the steering column will reveal if the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply excessive force since this could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an alternative key.

If the new key still does not engage, a short spray of oil that penetrates can assist. Apply a small amount around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this isn't working, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local auto dealer. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.

Check the Key

If you are unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it 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. If you have a spare key to test, try putting it in the ignition, then gently removing it. This should let you 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 put directly into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and will prevent them from becoming stuck.

It could be that your key has become damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn and stop you from starting your car ignition lock [on the main page]. In this case you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you're able to turn the car using a spare key and you've cleared the issue 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 blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of the hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this does not work then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key slides into and out of place 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 help things move forward.

You can also use a small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to loosen or reset the pins that are not aligned. Be careful not to overdo it as you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is crucial to confirm that your car's transmission is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. Many modern cars have the ability to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you've tried all of this and still can't get your key to turn it is likely that the housing of your ignition barrel replacement near me cylinder requires replacement. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is important to follow the correct steps.

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

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 cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are identical. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same way that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and then install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will begin again.