The 9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car ignition Lock Ignition Locked?

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

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be 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 switched on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch up or down to put the car into the correct gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable, or the shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can fix these issues.

The ignition cylinder can also wear out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key will wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers slide into place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue try cleaning the key with a cloth or using a cleaner, such as Triflow. You could also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.

While the key is in ignition, you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This can cause a small vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition and allow them to slide into place. You should be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or key.

If all of the above solutions are unsuccessful, it's time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the entire thing. Locksmiths can create a replacement key if the issue is the key. If the ignition cylinder is the cause, you will need to take your car to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to solve.

Check the Steering Wheel

A simple problem that can hinder the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It could also happen if someone in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they get out of the vehicle.

This is a quick solution that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick examination of the steering column will confirm that the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label can be located in the lower part of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key 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.

A spare key can be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and is no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make a replacement key.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work you, it's possible to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They'll be able provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary.

Check the Key

It could be that your key may be damaged if it does not engage in the ignition. 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 it helps.

If the pins within the lock aren't moving correctly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, try putting it into the ignition and gently removing it. This should allow you to be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If not, grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. In this case, you'll need to bring your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you can turn your car using an extra key, and you've ruled out any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock using the blunt screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will release it and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does not work then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key slides into and out of place when you insert it. It can get clogged up with dust, or simply wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the mobile ignition lock repair services to help things move forward.

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 out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo it or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, ensure that your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. A lot of newer vehicles come with a system which locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or park. This will stop the ignition key from turning.

If you've done all of this and still not able to get your key to rotate it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is essential to follow the correct procedures.

Generally, this means removal of the plastic cover which covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that hold it in the position.

Once the cover is removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you will need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they are the same. After this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder the same manner as the old one.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will help you select the proper replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle can start again.