Dominik Langley

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. You can fix this by sliding the key in 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 your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, it may be a problem with the shifter switch for the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to get the vehicle into the correct gear.

If the car still won't turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or shifter in the transmission. They can be fixed by a mechanic or by a local locksmith for cars.

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

The key could get clogged with lint in your pockets, as well as 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 issue. You could also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.

When the key is in the ignition you can tap it with a a small piece of hammer. This will create a slight vibration that might cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. You should be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder or key.

If all of the above methods fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it examined. It could be that the key is damaged in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the entire thing. Locksmiths can create a replacement key if the problem is with the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle is required to be brought into a repair shop to have it repaired. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. It could happen if 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 if an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car Ignition Lock.

This is a quick fix that doesn't require going to the 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's also crucial to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked taking a look at the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically found in the lower portion the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to use excessive force since it could damage the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the key doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it could aid. Just apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it begins to work. If this doesn't help, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to give you a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn in the ignition, it is likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.

If the pins in 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 pulling it out of the ignition once you have insert it. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, as they should. If not, lubricate the pins with powdered graphite. 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 will prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder to stop to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. In this situation, you'll need to bring your car to an auto ignition key replacement repair ignition lock cylinder shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you can turn your vehicle with an extra key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or 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 car. If this is not working it is necessary to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

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

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

It is crucial to confirm whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. A lot of newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you've done all of the above and still cannot get your key to turn, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. It is important to know that different vehicles require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and lost ignition key assembly. To remove it, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then unscrew any fasteners holding it in place.

After you have removed the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are identical. Following this step, you can install the new ignition key replacement cost cylinder in the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition will be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is advised to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will be able to help you select the proper replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle can be started again.