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. You can fix this 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 employ a small tackhammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen them.
Check the Battery
The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter up or downward to get the car into the gear.
If it is still not turning, the problem may be with the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic or by a local locksmith for cars.
The ignition cylinder may also be worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, could aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers slide into the place.
The filth from your pockets and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue, you can try cleaning the key using the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. You may also try a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.
You can also tap the key with a small hammer, while it’s in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide in place. You must be cautious not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key.
If all of the above options are unsuccessful, it’s time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be time to replace it altogether. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the cylinder in the ignition is the problem then you’ll have to take your car ignition replacement to a repair shop for it to be repaired. These issues are generally simple to solve.
Examine the Steering Wheel
A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel while they exit or get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen when an individual in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they get out of the vehicle.
Luckily it’s an easy fix that doesn’t require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, make sure the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it’s not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It’s also important to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick check of the steering column should reveal if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is usually indicated by a small “Lock” label in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling the lock or pulling it back with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force, as this could damage the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
Another thing to try is using an additional key to determine whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key is damaged and no capable of engaging the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an alternative key.
If the key doesn’t engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it could aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to get it working. If this doesn’t work, you will probably need to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.
Check the Key
If you’re unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it’s likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this 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 put it in the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be able to hear and feel the pins move inside. If you don’t hear or feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and stop them from becoming stuck.
It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not turn and stop you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you’ll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.
If you can turn your car ignition lock – www.G28carkeys.co.uk, on with a spare key, and you have ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to unlock the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will release it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does not work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or simply wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.
You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be very careful to not overdo it or you may cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you do this, ensure that your car’s gearbox is set to neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have an electronic system that locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the ignition key from being turned.
If you’ve tried all of these methods and your key doesn’t turn, it could be that the ignition housing has to be replaced. It is important to know that different vehicles require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally speaking, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you’ll need adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in the position.
Once the cover is removed, you’ll have to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to check the new one you have purchased with the old one to ensure that they are a perfect match. Once this step is complete, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. It is suggested that if this happens, you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to assist you in selecting the right replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.
