15 Top Pinterest Boards From All Time About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged 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 use a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. You can fix it by moving the gear shifter up or downward to get the vehicle into gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable or transmission shifter. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or by an auto ignition key replacement locksmith in your area.

The ignition cylinder can also wear out. Over time, both the ignition and key can wear out, making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, could aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape used to hold packages together. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow to resolve this problem. You can also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.

You can also tap the key using a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition and allow them to slide into position. Be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above solutions fail, it's likely to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the entire thing. If the problem is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. If the ignition cylinder is the problem then you'll need to bring the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. These issues are generally simple to repair.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A simple issue that could stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel as they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel and resting it against their body. It can also happen when someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.

This is a straightforward solution that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is typically indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much force, as it could damage the key or cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case.

If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it may aid. Apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this does not work, you may need to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They can supply you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder replacement near me cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key has been damaged if it doesn't engage in the ignition. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You may also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it helps.

If the pins within the lock aren't moving correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after you insert it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving inside. If you don't feel any movement, you could grease them with graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key and also prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it is worn or damaged, making it unable to connect the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your vehicle. If this happens, you will need to take your vehicle to repair or locksmith shop for assistance.

If you're able to turn your car ignition switch on with a spare key, and you have eliminated any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to unlock the lock by using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Don't use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this does not work, 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 position when it is inserted. Often times, it gets covered in debris or is due to wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition cylinder replacement near me to help things move forward.

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

Before you do this, make sure the car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars have the ability to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from being turned into the ignition.

If you have done all of this but not able to get your key to rotate it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder needs replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is essential to follow the correct procedures.

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

After removing the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to compare the new one you have purchased with the old one to ensure that they are a perfect match. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition could be damaged and need to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens, you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you choose the right replacement and install it correctly so that your vehicle can start again.