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. You can fix it by sliding the key into 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 transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. This can be solved by moving the switch up or down to get the Car Ignition Lock into the gear.
If it’s not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic or by an auto locksmith in your area.
It’s also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers to slide into place.
The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build up on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To fix ignition switch this issue you can try cleaning the key with an old cloth or using an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. It is also recommended to utilize a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.
When the key is in ignition you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. This will create a tiny vibration that could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide into the right position. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder or the key.
If all of the above solutions are unsuccessful, it’s time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it may be time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can create a replacement key if the problem is the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the problem then you’ll have to take your vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. These issues are generally simple to repair.
Check the steering wheel
A simple issue that could hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It could happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel while they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It could also happen if a passenger in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.
This is a quick fix that doesn’t involve going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it’s not, push or pull the shifter until it shifts into one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick check of the steering column will reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically indicated by a small “Lock” label in the lower area of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the lock or pulling it down with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure since this could cause damage to the key or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to deactivate the lock. This could mean that the original key has worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the case then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make a replacement key.
If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it might aid. Apply a small amount around the ignition, and inserted keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to work. If this does not work, 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 replace the ignition cylinder if needed.
Check the Key
If you are unable get your key to turn in the ignition, it is likely that there is something wrong with your key. Try removing any foreign material from the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You may also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it helps.
It’s possible that the lock pins inside aren’t moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after having put it in. This should allow you to feel and hear if the internal lock pins move as they should. If you don’t hear or feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and keep them from becoming stuck.
A more serious issue with your key could be that it has become damaged or worn which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins of the van ignition repair cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you’ll need take your vehicle to repair or locksmith shop for service.
If you can turn your car using a spare key, and you have ruled out any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has been worn out. Try to open the lock using the blunt screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don’t use the head. Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will release it and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does not work, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place your key slides into and out of position when it is inserted. Often times, it gets gunked up with debris or is due to wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also use the small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to loosen or reset pins that are out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.
Before you attempt this, make sure that your car’s gearbox is set to neutral or park. A lot of newer cars come with a system that can stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park, which can prevent the key from turning in the ignition.
If you’ve done all of this and still cannot get your key to turn it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder needs replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally, this means removing the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you’ll need adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners holding it in the position.
After the cover has been removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to compare the new one that you bought with the original one to ensure that they’re the same. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the previous one.
Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition will be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is recommended to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you in selecting the right replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.
