Why is My
Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons your ignition could be stuck. The key could be dirty or have a broken wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.
The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer.
Check the Battery
The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can
fix car ignition it by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to get the vehicle into the correct gear.
If the car still won't turn, the problem could be due to the neutral safety cable or the shifter on the transmission. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or by an auto locksmith in your area.
It is also possible that the
ignition lock repair cylinder is worn out. In time both the
ignition lock repair near me and key can become worn out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers slide into place.
The key could get clogged with lint in your pockets and adhesive from tape that is used to keep packages in place. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue, you can try cleaning the key using an old cloth or using a cleaner like Triflow. You can also try a spare key to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.
While the key is in the ignition you can tap it with a the hammer with a small amount. This will create a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide into position. However, you must be very careful not to harm the ignition key or cylinder.
If none of the above work, you should call a locksmith to check it out. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the car will need to be brought to a repair shop to have it repaired. Fortunately, these issues are generally easy to solve.
Make sure you check the steering Wheel
A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. This occurs when the driver is unable to engage it while exiting or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking on the wheel and securing themselves against it with their hands. It could also happen if someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.
This is a quick solution that doesn't require an appointment with a locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it changes into one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.
If the wheel isn't locked, a quick examination of the steering column should determine if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually found in the lower portion the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the key or pulling on it with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much pressure since this could cause damage to the key, or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
A spare key can be used to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. If this is the case then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an appropriate replacement key.
If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it could help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this does not work, you'll probably need to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.
Check the Key
If you are unable get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. You can try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it can help.
If the pins within the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after you put it in. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If not, apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled 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 damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, and prevent you from starting your
car ignition switch replacement. If this happens you'll need bring your car to repair or locksmith shop for assistance.
If you are able to turn your vehicle with 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. You can try to loosen the lock using the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will loosen it and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this is not working, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and slides out of place when inserted. It is often covered in debris or simply due to wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.
You can also use a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be very careful to not overdo it as you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
It is crucial to confirm that your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many newer cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from being turned in the ignition.
If you've tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it's 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.
Generally, this means removal of the plastic cover which covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then remove any fasteners holding it in place.
Once the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old
ignition key replacement cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to make sure that they are the same. Following this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder in the same way that you did with the old one.
It is possible that even with our best efforts, an ignition can be damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and install it correctly so that your car can begin again.
