Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. This can be repaired by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder multiple times.

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

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

If it's not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can easily fix these issues.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant can aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tape that holds packages together can build up on the key, which prevents it from sliding into the ignition key replacement. To fix this issue, you can try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or a cleaner like Triflow. You could also try a spare key in order to determine if the issue is the ignition or the key.

While the key is in ignition, you can tap it with the hammer with a small amount. This will cause a small vibration, which could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and let them slide into the right position. However, you should be very careful not to scratch the key or the ignition lock repair cylinder.

If all of the above methods fail, it's probably time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. It could be that the key has been damaged inside the ignition key replacement or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the car must be taken to a repair shop to have it repaired. Luckily, these issues are typically very simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. This can happen if the driver accidentally engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by yanking on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It could also happen if someone in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

This is a simple fix that doesn't involve going to the locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure the gear shift is either in Park or neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter slowly 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 look at the steering column will tell if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock' label is usually located 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 use too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an additional key to determine 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 in the lock cylinder. If this is the case, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create a replacement key.

If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can assist. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit a specialist at your local auto ignition key replacement dealership. They'll be able to give you a new key and replace the ignition cylinder should it be necessary.

Check the Key

It could be that your key has been damaged if it will not turn in the ignition. You can clean 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 it helps.

If the pins inside the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, try putting it into the ignition and gently removing it. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, as they should. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious problem is that it is worn or damaged, making it unable to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case, you will need to bring your car to repair or locksmith shop for repair.

If you're able to turn your car on with a spare key, and you've ruled out any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of the Hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will often free it and allow you to turn your key and start your car. If this does nothing then you'll need your lock's cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. It is often filled with debris or as due to wear and wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move forward.

You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the cylinder for ignition, to try to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo this or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.

It is crucial to confirm that your car's transmission is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. Many modern cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from turning into the ignition.

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

Generally, this involves removing the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then loosen any fasteners that hold it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they are identical. Once this step is complete, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same way that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition will be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can begin again.