Why is My car ignition locked (Learn More Here)?

There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. The key could be dirty or may have a damaged wafer in it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is turned on. This can be solved by moving the switch up or down to put the car into gear.

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

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time both the ignition and key can wear out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can address this problem, allowing the wafers slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To fix this issue, you can try cleaning the key with an old cloth or using a cleaner, such as Triflow. You could also try 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 an hammer that is small. This can cause a slight vibration, which may cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into place. However, you should be cautious not to harm the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.

If all of the above solutions fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key could be damaged in the cylinder of ignition or it could be the time to replace it all. A locksmith can make an alternative key if the problem is with the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the cause then you'll need to take the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen when an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and resting it against their body. It can also happen when an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

This is a quick fix that doesn't require going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked taking a look at the steering column will show whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the key or pulling it down with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much force as this could damage the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using a spare key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key is worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case.

If the new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can assist. Apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to work. If this does not work, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They'll be able to provide you with a new key, and Lost Ignition Key will also replace the ignition cylinder if necessary.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it's possible that there is a problem with your key. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You could also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it can help.

It could be that the internal lock pins aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently pulling it out of the ignition after having put it in. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins move inside. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This should allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key, and keep them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the ignition cylinder to stop turning and prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need to bring your car to repair or locksmith shop for repair.

If you're able to turn the car using an extra key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of a Hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does not work, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when inserted. Often times, it gets filled with debris or is due to wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

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

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

If you've tried all of this and still cannot get your key to rotate it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. It is important to know that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

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

Once the cover is removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you'll have to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to ensure that they are the same. After this step is completed, the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you determine the correct replacement and then install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.