Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition might be stuck. The key may be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. This can be repaired by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times.

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

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there might be a problem with the shifter switch for the transmission. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car into the correct gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable or the shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix these problems.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, could help solve this problem by allowing the wafers to slide into place.

The key can become clogged with lint in your pockets and adhesive from tape that is used to secure packages. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow to fix this problem. It is also recommended to utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into place. Be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If none of the suggestions above work, you should call a locksmith ignition replacement cost to check it out. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it completely. If the problem is with the key the locksmith can create a new key for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the car will need to be brought to a repair shop in order to get it replaced. These issues are generally simple to fix.

Check the steering wheel

A common issue that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by pulling the wheel while being able to hold 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.

This is a quick fix that doesn't require a trip to the locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it changes into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is usually identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much force as this could cause damage to the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This may indicate that the original key has worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an appropriate replacement key.

If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it may help. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition, and inserted keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to engage. If this doesn't work, you will likely have to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They can supply you with a new key and also 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. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You can also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

If the pins in the lock do not move properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test the spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after you put it in. This should allow you to feel and hear if the internal lock pins move as they should. If not, you could lubricate the pins with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and keep them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your car. In this situation you'll have to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

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 that the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to loosen the lock by using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently can often release it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key can slide in and out when inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or simply wear and wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use a small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Be careful not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

It is essential to ensure whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park prior to attempting this. Many newer cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from turning in the ignition.

If you have done all of this and still not able to get your key to rotate, it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct steps.

This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then remove any fasteners holding it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they're identical. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition will become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can begin again.