Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why the ignition of your car ignition switch repair could be locked. The key may be dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

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

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the car is in Park neutral, or doesn’t start when the key is turned on. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter up or down to put the vehicle into the gear.

If it’s not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto ignition key replacement locksmith can easily solve these problems.

The ignition cylinder can also be worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key can become worn out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers slide into place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue, you can try cleaning the key with the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. You may also try a spare key in order to determine if the issue is the key or ignition.

You could also tap the key with a small hammer, while it’s in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition, allowing them to slide into place. However, you must be cautious not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to call a locksmith to check it out. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can make an alternate key if the issue is with the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the issue then you’ll have to take the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel and being able to hold it against their body. It can also happen when someone in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

This is a quick fix that doesn’t require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure 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 should also activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn’t locked, a quick look at the steering column will show whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically indicated by a small “Lock” label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is essential not to apply excessive force since this could cause damage to the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is worn out and is no more able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key.

If the key still doesn’t engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may help. 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’ll likely need to see a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They’ll be able to provide you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn the ignition, it’s possible that there is a problem with your key. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it can help.

It could be that the internal lock pins aren’t moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition once you have insert it. 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 apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn’t able to work with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you’ll need to take your car to an auto repair ignition lock cylinder shop or locksmith to get service.

If you can turn your car using an extra key and you’ve cleared the issue 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 a hammer (not the head). Often, tapping gently on the cylinder can free it and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn’t work then you’ll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of position when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets filled with debris or is the result of wear and wear and tear. Try putting 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 interior of the cylinder for lost ignition key, in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be very careful to not overdo it, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, make sure that the car’s gearbox is in neutral or park. A lot of newer vehicles come with an electronic system that locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have done all of the above and still can’t get your key to turn it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct procedures.

This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you’ll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners holding it in the position.

Once the cover is removed, you’ll have to remove the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you’ll need to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they’re identical. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition may be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is recommended to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will start again.