Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. The key may be dirty or have a broken wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.
Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder are stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
If the car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there could be an issue with the shifter switch for the transmission. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to put the vehicle into the correct gear.
If the car doesn't turn, the issue could be related to the neutral safety cable, or the transmission shifter. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can fix these problems.
The ignition cylinder may also wear out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, can aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.
The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow, to solve this issue. You may also try a spare key in order to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.
You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition which will allow them to slide into position. However, you should be very careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.
If none of the suggestions above work, you need to contact a
locksmith ignition replacement cost to test the issue. It could be that the key is broken inside the ignition or it may be time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can make a replacement key if the issue is with the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause then you'll have to take the car to a repair shop for it to be repaired. These issues are usually simple to solve.
Check the steering wheel
A simple problem that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It could happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking the wheel and being able to hold it against their body. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.
Fortunately it's an easy fix and does not require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the shifter is either in Park or neutral. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick examination of the steering column should determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower part of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
Another thing to try is using an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key has damaged and no capable of engaging the wafers in 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 won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil could assist. 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 isn't working, you'll likely have to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They can provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.
Check the Key
If you're unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. You can get rid of 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 helps.
If the pins inside the lock do not move correctly when you insert your
key ignition replacement, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test the spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after you insert it. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins move inside. If not, apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place as you insert the key and stop them from becoming 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 cylinder of ignition to not to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need take your car to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance.
If you're able to turn the car ignition lock (
Highly recommended Reading) with an extra key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock with the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this
does a new ignition switch require a new key nothing, you'll need to have your lock's cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out of place when you insert it. It can get clogged up with dust, or simply wear and wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.
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 careful to not overdo it as you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.
Before you do this, ensure that the car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. Many modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from being turned in the ignition.
If you've tried all of these steps and your key still won't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is essential to follow the correct steps.
Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners that hold it in the position.
Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder off 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. After this step is completed, the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the old one was removed.
It is possible that, despite our best efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will be able to start up again.
