Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition may be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. It is possible to 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 have become stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is turned on. This can be repaired by moving the shifter up or down to get the car into the correct gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable or the shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.

The ignition cylinder can also wear out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers slide into place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem, you can try cleaning the key with the help of a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow. You should also use a spare key to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration, which may be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide in the right position. You should be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above methods fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key might be broken in the cylinder of ignition or it could be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can make an alternate key in the event that the issue is with the key. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought to a repair shop in order to get it replaced. These issues are generally simple to repair.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A simple issue that could prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel while they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and resting it against their body. It could also happen if an individual in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they exit the vehicle.

This is a straightforward solution that doesn't require going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it changes into one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will determine if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower portion of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure, as it could damage the key or break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another option is using a spare key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can aid. Apply a small amount around the ignition and keyhole, then gently tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this does not work, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder if necessary.

Check the Key

It could be that your key has been damaged if it will not turn on. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc.). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.

If the pins inside the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after having insert it. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move as they should. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could lubricate them with 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 as you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key may be that it has become worn or damaged and is unable to connect the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder to stop to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need bring your car to a locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you are able to turn your car using an extra key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Try to open the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Gently tapping on the cylinder will often free it and allow you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key slides in and out when it is inserted. Often times, it gets covered in debris or is due to wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this, or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, ensure that your car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. Many modern cars have the ability to lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from turning in the ignition lock repair near me.

If you've done 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 steps.

This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then loosen any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After the cover has been removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. It is then essential to compare the new one that you have purchased with the old one to make sure they are an identical match. After this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the old one.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, the ignition could be damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly, so that your car can start again.