Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your Car Ignition Lock ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. You can fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when you insert the key into the ignition, it may be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the car into gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable or shifter in the transmission. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic, or a local automotive locksmith.

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

The key may become blocked with lint in your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to secure packages. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue try cleaning the key using an old cloth or using a cleaner like Triflow. You should also utilize a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition.

While the key ignition replacement is in the ignition you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. This will cause a small vibration, which may be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide in place. You should be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or the key.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to call a locksmith to check the issue. The key could be damaged within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can make an alternative key in the event that the issue is with the key. If the ignition cylinder is the problem then you'll need to bring the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be repaired. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to fix.

Check the steering wheel

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

Fortunately it's a simple fix that doesn't require a trip an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the shifter is either in Park or neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter slowly until it changes into one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick check of the steering column will reveal if the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much force, as it could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

A spare key can be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and is no longer able to engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the new key still does not engage, a short spray of oil that penetrates can help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't help, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder should it be necessary.

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 remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it can help.

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 a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after having insert it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins move inside. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This should help the pins slide into position when you insert the key and keep them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key may be that it has become worn or damaged and is unable to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder to stop to turn, which can prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this case, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto locksmith ignition replacement repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you are able to turn your car using a spare key, and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder can free it and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have your lock cylinder changed by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key slides in and out when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or is a result of regular wear and wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also employ a small hammer and very gently tap the inside of the cylinder for ignition, 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 try this, make sure that your car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars come with a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the ignition key from turning.

If you've tried these steps but your key is still unable to turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to note that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

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

After removing the cover you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to ensure that they are the same. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition can be damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you select the proper replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your car ignition switch replacement can start again.