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 in it. You can fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder are stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn’t come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, it could be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car into the correct gear.

If it is still not turning, the problem could be related to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or a local locksmith for cars.

The ignition cylinder can also wear out. Over time both the ignition and key can wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant can help solve this problem by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

The key could get clogged by lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth or a cleaner like Triflow to fix this issue. It is also recommended to use a spare key to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.

When the key is in the ignition, you can tap it using a a small piece of hammer. This can cause a slight vibration, which may be enough to loosen up the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide into place. But, be cautious not to harm the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you should consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. The key might be broken inside the ignition cylinder or it could be time to replace it completely. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith can create a new one for you. If the ignition cylinder is the issue, you will need to take your car to a repair ignition lock cylinder shop in order for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A simple issue that could hinder the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by pulling the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It could also happen if someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.

Luckily it’s a simple fix car ignition that doesn’t require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it’s not, push or pull the shifter slowly 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 is not locked, a quick check of the steering column will reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small “Lock label can be located in the lower part of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can be used to disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key is worn out and is no capable of engaging the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case.

If the new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can help. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition and keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn’t help, you may need to seek out a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key has been damaged if it does not turn on. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.

It could be that the internal lock pins aren’t working properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, you can put it into the ignition and gently removing it. You should be able to hear and feel the pins move inside. 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 put directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and keep them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has become damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you’ll need take your car to an auto locksmith or repair shop for repair.

If you’re able to turn your car on with a spare key and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to unlock the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently will often free it which allows you to turn your key ignition replacement and start your vehicle. If this doesn’t work then you’ll need your lock’s cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key can slide in and out when inserted. It can get clogged up with dust, or simply wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

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

It is important to check whether your car ignition barrel replacement‘s transmission is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. A lot of newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from being turned into the ignition.

If you’ve tried all of this but cannot get your key to turn it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is important to follow the correct procedures.

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

After you have removed the cover, you’ll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to check the new one that you bought with the previous one to make sure they are a perfect match. Once this step is complete, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition could be damaged and require to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to assist you in selecting the right replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle can be started again.