Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition might be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer in it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

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

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is turned on. You can fix this by moving the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the vehicle into the gear.

If it's still not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily fix these problems.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key may 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 key could get clogged with lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to secure packages. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem try cleaning the key using the help of a cloth or a cleaner, like Triflow. You could also try a spare key to determine if the problem is with the ignition or the key.

You can also try to tap the key using a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration, which may be enough to loosen up the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide into place. You must be cautious not to scratch the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above methods fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition, Car ignition key replacement or it might be the time to replace it all. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought into a repair shop to have it repaired. These problems are usually easy to fix ignition switch.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it when they exit or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by yanking on the wheel while balancing themself against it using their hands. 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.

Fortunately it's an easy fix that doesn't require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. You should also 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 reveal whether the key is engaged with the lock. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower part of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure, as it could damage the key, or damage 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 indicate that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to get it working. If this doesn't work, you will likely have to visit an expert at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to give you a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder if necessary.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it's possible that there is a problem with your key. Try removing any foreign material from the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it aids.

It is possible that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test a spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition once you have insert it. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving inside. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you can grease them with graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place as you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to connect with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this case, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you are able to turn your car with an extra key, and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of a Hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder will usually free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does not work, you will need to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when you insert it. It is prone to getting blocked with dust, or simply wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

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

Before you attempt this, ensure that 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 tried all of these methods and your key doesn't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition key replacement cylinder, so it is important to follow the correct procedure.

This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.

Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they are the same. After this step is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same way as the old one.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition could be damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to help you select the proper replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your Car ignition lock can start again.