Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

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

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is turned on. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to put the vehicle into the correct gear.

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

The ignition cylinder could also wear out. Over time both the ignition and key can wear out, making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, can aid in solving this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth, Car Ignition Locked or a cleaner such as Triflow, to solve this issue. You may also try a spare key in order to determine if the issue is the key or ignition.

While the key is in ignition you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This will create a tiny vibration, which may cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into place. But, be careful not to scratch the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the above works, you must contact a locksmith to test it out. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be the time to replace it all. If the problem is with the key the locksmith can create a new key for you. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause then you'll need to take your vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. This occurs when the driver is unable to engage it as they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themself against it using their hands. It can also happen when an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car.

This is a straightforward fix that doesn't involve going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, car ignition locked ensure that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it moves into one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake or turn on the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked taking a look at the steering column will show whether the key is engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically found in the lower portion the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important not to use excessive force since this could cause damage to the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers inside 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 new key does not engage, a short spray of oil that penetrates can assist. Just apply a small amount around the mobile ignition lock repair services, and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this isn't working, you'll probably need to visit an expert at your local auto dealership. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder, if required.

Check the Key

It could be that your key has been damaged if it doesn't engage in the ignition. Try removing any foreign material from the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone 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 the spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after having put it in. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If not, you can grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

It is possible that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your car. If this is the case you'll need to bring your car to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you are able to turn your car with a spare key, and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of a Hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this does nothing will happen, you'll have to get your lock's cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when inserted. Often times, it gets covered in debris or is a result of regular wear and wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.

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

Before you try this, make sure your car's gearbox is in neutral or park. A lot of newer cars come with an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral and prevent the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you have tried all of these methods but your key is still unable to turn, it's possible that the van ignition repair housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is crucial to follow the correct procedure.

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

Once the cover has been removed, you'll need to take the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one you bought with the previous one to ensure that they are a perfect match. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same way as the old one.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition will become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car can be started again.