Why is My car ignition switch Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. The key might be dirty or have a broken wafer inside it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

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

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 might be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. It is possible to fix the issue by moving the gear shifter up or down to get the vehicle into the gear.

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

The ignition cylinder can also wear out. Over time, both the ignition and key may wear out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant can solve this issue 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 secure packages. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner like Triflow to fix this issue. Also, you can use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer, while it’s in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration, which may be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into place. But, be very careful not to scratch the key or the ignition lock repair near me cylinder.

If all of the above options are unsuccessful, it’s time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. The key could be damaged within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it completely. If the issue is with the key the locksmith can create a new key for you. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause, you will need to take the car to a repair shop for it to be repaired. Luckily, these issues are generally easy to solve.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A simple problem that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel while they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel while resting it against their body. It may also happen when someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car ignition barrel replacement.

This is a simple fix that doesn’t involve going to the locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is either in Park or Neutral. If it isn’t, simply push or pull the shifter gently until it changes into one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn’t locked an inspection of the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small “Lock label is typically found in the lower portion the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much pressure as this could cause damage to the key, or even break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key.

If the new key still does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn’t work you, you might need to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They’ll be able provide you with a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

If you are unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You could also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

If the pins inside the lock aren’t moving correctly when you insert your key, it’s possible that they are stuck. You can test the spare key by gently removing it of the ignition once you have insert it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If you don’t hear or feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place as you insert the key and stop them from becoming stuck.

It is possible that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn’t able to work with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not turn and prevent you from starting your car. In this instance you’ll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you can turn your car using an extra key, and you have eliminated any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder is been worn out. Try to open the lock with an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don’t use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will release it up and allow you to turn your car ignition key replacement key. If this does nothing then you’ll need the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when you insert it. Most of the time, it gets filled with debris or simply a result of regular wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move forward.

You can also make use of a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, ensure that the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. Many newer 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 into the ignition.

If you have tried these steps and your key doesn’t turn, it’s possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to know that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this involves removing the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you’ll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then loosen any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After removing the cover you’ll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one that you have purchased with the old one to ensure that they are an identical match. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same way that the old one was removed.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition could be damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will be able to start up again.