13 Things About Car Ignition Lock You May Not Have Known

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few 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 the pins.

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to get the vehicle into the correct gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily fix these issues.

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

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To solve this problem try cleaning the keys with a cloth or using a cleaner, such as Triflow. Also, you can make use of a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition.

While the key is in ignition, you can tap it with the hammer with a small amount. This will create a tiny vibration that could be enough to loosen up the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide in the right position. But, be cautious not to harm the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the above work, you need to contact a locksmith to test it out. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can create a replacement key if the issue is with the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the issue, you will need to take the car to a repair shop for it to be repaired. Luckily, these problems are usually very easy to solve.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A simple problem that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It could also happen if an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.

Luckily it's a simple fix that does not require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, an inspection of the steering column will show whether the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since this can damage the key or break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use an additional key to determine whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an alternative key.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil can aid. Simply spray a tiny amount of oil around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit an expert at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder should it be necessary.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it's possible that there is a problem with your key. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it helps.

If the pins in the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently removing it of the ignition once you have put it in. This should allow you to feel and hear if the internal lock pins move as they should. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you can lubricate them with graphite powder. You can purchase 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 keep them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it has damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to stop turning and stop you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need take your car ignition switch repair to repair or locksmith shop for assistance.

If you are able to turn your car with a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of the hammer (not the head). Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will release it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work will happen, you'll have to get your lock cylinder changed by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

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

You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is important to check that your car ignition switch's transmission is set to neutral or park prior to attempting this. Many newer cars come with an electronic system that locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have tried these steps and your key still won't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is essential to follow the correct procedures.

This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then remove any fasteners that hold it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one you purchased with the original one to make sure they are a perfect match. After this step is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite all of our best 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 will assist you in selecting the right replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle can be started again.