Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition in your car may be locked. The key may be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.

The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, there may be an issue with the shifter switch on the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter up or down to put the car into the correct gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the issue could be with the neutral safety cable or shifter on the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.

The ignition cylinder may also wear out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting the wafers to slide into the proper position.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can build up on the key, which prevents it from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to fix this issue. You should also utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

When the key is in ignition, you can tap it using a a small piece of hammer. This can cause a slight vibration, which may be enough to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide in the right position. Be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or the key.

If all of the above solutions fail, it's probably time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key might be broken inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can create a replacement key if the problem is the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause, you will need to take the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be repaired. These issues are usually simple to repair.

Check the Steering Wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. It could happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel as they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and being able to hold it against their body. It can also happen if a passenger 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 car ignition that doesn't require a trip an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake button 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 confirm that the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. This is usually marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling the lock or pulling on it with moderate force. It is important not to use too much force as this could damage the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use an additional key to determine whether it is able to disengage 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 case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an alternative key.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this isn't working, you'll probably need to visit a specialist at your local auto dealer. They can provide you with a new 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 is likely that there is something wrong with your key. Try removing any foreign material from the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it helps.

If the pins inside the lock aren't moving in a proper manner when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition once you have insert it. This should let you feel and hear if the internal lock pins move as they should. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you could grease them with graphite. 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, [Redirect Only] and keep them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue is that it has become damaged or worn which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder to stop to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need take your car to repair or locksmith shop for assistance.

If you're able to turn the car using a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of a hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it which allows you to turn your key and start your car. If this is not working then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when you insert it. It is often filled with debris or as due to wear and 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 to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

It is important to check that your car's transmission is set to neutral or park prior to attempting this. A lot of newer cars come with a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from turning in the ignition.

If you've done all of this but not able to get your key to rotate it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one you purchased with the old one to make sure they are an identical match. Following this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it's recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and then install it properly so that your vehicle can restart.