Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

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

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is turned on. This can be solved by moving the switch up or down to put the car in the correct gear.

If it's still not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or an auto locksmith in your area.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key can wear out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting the wafers to slide into the proper position.

The key may become blocked with lint in your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow, to solve this problem. It is also recommended to make use of a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition cylinder lock repair.

When the key is in ignition you can tap it with a the hammer with a small amount. This will cause a small vibration, which could cause enough vibration to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide into place. But, be careful not to damage the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. It could be that the key is damaged in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the entire thing. Locksmiths can make a replacement key if the issue is the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause then you'll need to bring the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be repaired. Luckily, these problems are typically very simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and being able to hold it against their body. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.

Fortunately it's a simple fix car ignition that does not require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower part of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the key or pulling it back with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since this could cause damage to the key, or even break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an alternative key.

If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can assist. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local auto dealership. 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 may be damaged if it doesn't turn in the ignition. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this can help.

If the pins within the lock aren't moving properly 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 having put it in. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, as they ought to. If not, you could grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place as you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue is that it is worn or damaged and is unable to engage the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens, you will need to take your car to a locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you can turn your car using an extra key, and you have eliminated any problems with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of the hammer (not the head). Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will loosen it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does nothing, you'll 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 place when you insert it. Often times, it gets gunked up with debris or simply a result of regular wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

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

Before you do this, make sure your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. Many modern cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from being turned into the ignition.

If you've done all of this but not able to get your key to turn, it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is important to follow the correct steps.

Generally, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, g28carkeys.co.uk you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in the position.

Once the cover is removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one you have purchased with the previous one to make sure they're the same. After this you can then install the new ignition cylinder the same way as the old one.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will start again.