Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside. This can be corrected by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several 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 it doesn't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, there may be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to get the vehicle into gear.
If the car still won't turn, the problem could be due to the neutral safety cable or the transmission shifter. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. In time both the ignition and key can wear out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting the wafers to slide into place.
The key may become blocked by lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to hold packages together. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue, you can try cleaning the keys with a cloth or using an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. You may also try a spare key to determine if the issue is the key or ignition.
When the key is in ignition you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This will cause a small vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into place. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder or key.
If all of the above solutions fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it examined. car ignition switch repair could be that the key has been damaged inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the whole thing. If the problem is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. 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. Luckily, these problems are generally easy to repair.
Check the Steering Wheel
A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to stop turning. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by pulling on the wheel and securing themselves against it with their hands. It can also happen when someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car.
This is a quick fix that doesn't require an appointment with a locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually found in the lower portion the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force, as this could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is worn out and is no capable of engaging the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.
If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it could aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work you, you might need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and 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 something is wrong with your key. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it can help.
It could be that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, try putting it in the ignition and gently pulling it out. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.
It could be that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not turn and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need take your car to a locksmith or repair shop for repair.
If you can turn your car using a spare key and you have eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock with a blunt screwdriver or a handle of a small hammer. Do not use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work will happen, you'll have to get your lock's cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place your key is inserted and slides out of position when it is inserted. It is often gunked up with debris or simply a result of regular wear and wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it or you may cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
It is important to check that your car's transmission is set to park or neutral prior to attempting this. Many modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral and prevent the key from turning into the ignition.
If you've tried all of these methods but your key is still unable to turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is essential to follow the correct procedures.
Generally speaking, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.
Once the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one that you bought with the old one to make sure they're the same. After this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way that you did with the old one.
It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is advised to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will be able to assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will be able to start up again.