9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons the ignition of your car could be locked. The key might be dirty or may have a damaged wafer in it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder multiple times.

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, it might be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. This can be easily solved by moving the switch up or down to get the car in the gear.

If it is still not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily fix ignition switch these problems.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, both the ignition and key can wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant can solve this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape used to secure packages. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue you can try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or a cleaner, like Triflow. You should also use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the mobile ignition lock repair services or the van ignition repair.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If none of the above works, you must consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith can create a new key for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, the car is required to be brought to a repair shop in order to get it replaced. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A common issue that can hinder the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and resting it against their body. It can also happen when an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the Car ignition lock (sculturein.com).

This is a quick fix ignition switch that doesn't involve a trip to the locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake button or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection 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 area of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since it could damage the key, or even break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil could help. Just apply a small amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this isn't working, you'll likely have to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They will be able to provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key has been damaged if it does not turn in the ignition. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc). You could also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it can help.

It's possible that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, you can try placing it into the ignition and gently pulling it out. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, which they should. If you don't feel any movement, you can grease them with graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and keep them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins within the ignition cylinder lock repair cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. In this case, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you are able to turn your car using an extra key, and you have ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock by using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Don't use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will release it to allow you to turn your car key. If this is not working it is necessary to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. Often times, it gets gunked up with debris or as a result of regular wear and wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

You can also employ a small hammer and very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, ensure that your car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral and prevent the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you've done all of the above and still cannot get your key to turn it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

This typically 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 the lowest setting and then remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.

Once the cover has been removed, you'll need to take the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they are identical. Following this step is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same way that you did with the old one.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that if this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and then install it properly so that your vehicle can begin again.