11 Strategies To Completely Defy Your Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition might be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key in 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 on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

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 turned on. This can be fixed by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car in gear.

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

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, could help solve this problem by allowing the wafers slide into place.

The key can become clogged with lint in your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to keep packages in place. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner like Triflow to fix this problem. You can also test a spare key to determine if the problem is with the ignition or the key.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition and allow them to slide in place. However, you should be very careful not to harm the key or the ignition cylinder.

If all of the above solutions are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. The key may be damaged in the cylinder of ignition or it could be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can create an alternate key if the issue is the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car must be taken to a repair shop in order to have it repaired. These issues are generally simple to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. This happens if the driver has a mistake and engages it when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themselves against it with their hands. It could also happen if a passenger in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.

Luckily it's a simple fix and doesn't require a trip an expert locksmith ignition replacement cost or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter gently until it moves into 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, a quick inspection of the steering column will confirm that the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is usually indicated by a small "Lock" label on the lower portion of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much force as this could damage the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using an additional key to determine whether it is able to disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key has worn out and is no more able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the case then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an alternative key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can assist. Just apply a small amount around the ignition and keyhole, then gently tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this does not work you, you might need to seek out a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll 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 is possible that something is wrong with your key. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You can also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it helps.

It is possible that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can try putting it into the ignition and gently removing it. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving within. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you can lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue is that it is damaged or worn which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need bring your car ignition switch to an auto locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you are able to turn your car on with an extra key, and you have eliminated any problems with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has been worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver or handle of the Hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it which allows you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have your lock cylinder changed by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets gunked up with debris or simply a result of regular wear and 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 make use of a small hammer to gently tap the inside of the cylinder for ignition, in an effort to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

It is important to check that your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many newer cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from turning into the ignition.

If you've done all of this but can't get your key to rotate it is most likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder needs replacement. It is important to know that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

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

Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one you have purchased with the previous one to ensure that they are a perfect match. Once this step is complete, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same way that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the mobile ignition lock repair services can become damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to help you select the proper replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.