Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition could be stuck. The key may be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder are stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come 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 moving the gear shifter up or downward to get the car into gear.

If it is still not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. This can be easily solved by a mechanic, or a local locksmith for cars.

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

The key may become blocked with lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape used to hold packages together. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the key using the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. You can also try a spare key in order to determine if the issue is the ignition or the key.

You could 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 up the ignition's wafers and let them slide into the right position. Be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key.

If all of the above options fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it examined. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the whole thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. If the cylinder for the ignition is the problem then you'll have to take your vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. Luckily, these issues are generally easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen when an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It could also happen when a passenger 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 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 shifts into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, taking a look at the steering column will show whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much pressure, as this can damage the key, or even break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This could mean that the original key has damaged and no capable of engaging the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make a replacement key.

If the new key still does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can aid. Just apply a small amount around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then gently tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this does not work, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They can provide you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it is likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You could also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

It's possible that the internal lock pins aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key that you want to test, put it into the auto ignition key replacement and gently pulling it out. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If not, you could grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and also prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key may be that it is damaged or worn, making it 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 ignition lock (content). If this is the case you'll need to take your car ignition switch replacement to repair ignition lock cylinder or locksmith shop for service.

If you're able to turn your car with a spare key, and you have eliminated any problems with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has been worn out. Try to open the lock with an abrasive screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it which allows you to turn your key and start your car ignition key replacement. If this doesn't work, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or as the result of wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use a small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, ensure that the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from being turned.

If you have 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 procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is crucial to follow the correct steps.

Generally, this means removal of the plastic cover which covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll have to remove the old ignition barrel replacement near me cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to make sure that they are identical. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition will be damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that when this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and install it correctly so that your vehicle can begin again.