Why is My Car Ignition Lock Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition may be stuck. The key may be dirty or have a broken wafer in it. This can be corrected by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

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

Check the Battery

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

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

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time, both the ignition and key can become worn out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant can solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into place.

The key can become clogged with lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow to fix this issue. You may also try a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the key.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. However, you must be careful not to harm the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to call a locksmith to check the issue. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it altogether. A locksmith can make a replacement key if the problem is the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the issue, you will need to take your vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These issues are generally simple to solve.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A simple issue that could hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It could happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It could also happen when an individual in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

Luckily it's a simple fix and doesn't require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to 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 examination of the steering column should reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually located in 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 force, as this could cause damage to the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key can be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and cannot 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 doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it could help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work you, it's possible to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They'll be able to provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key is damaged if it will not turn in the ignition. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You could also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

If the pins inside the lock aren't moving in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can put it in the ignition and gently pulling it out. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If not, grease the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem is that it has become damaged or worn, making it unable to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need bring your car ignition lock to an auto locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you're able to turn your car on with an extra key, and you've ruled out any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. Try to open the lock using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. 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 can slide in and out when inserted. It is often covered in debris or is the result of wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

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

Before you attempt this, ensure that your car's gearbox is in neutral or park. Many modern cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from turning into the ignition.

If you've tried all of this but cannot get your key to rotate it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct procedure.

Generally speaking, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then loosen 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 important to compare the new one you have purchased with the original one to ensure that they're the same. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way that you did with the old one.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, the ignition can be damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you determine the correct replacement and install it correctly so that your car can restart.