Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are several 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 in and out of the cylinder a few times.
The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
If your car is in Park or neutral, but won’t turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, there might be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be repaired by moving the shifter up or down to get the car into the gear.
If the car still won’t turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable or shifter on the transmission. They can be fixed by a mechanic or a local automotive locksmith.
It’s also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key may wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant can solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into the place.
Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To solve this problem you can try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or a cleaner like Triflow. It is also recommended to make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition.
When the key is in the ignition, you can tap it with a the hammer with a small amount. This can cause a slight vibration, which could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into place. You must be cautious not to harm either the ignition cylinder, or the key.
If all of the above solutions fail, it’s probably time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it completely. If the issue is with the key the locksmith can make a new one for you. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle will need to be brought into a repair shop to get it replaced. These problems are usually easy to repair.
Check the steering wheel
A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to stop turning. It could happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel as they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel and resting it against their body. It can 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 fix that doesn’t require a trip to the mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. 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 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 tell whether the key has been engaged with the lock. A small “Lock label can be located in the lower part of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much force, as it could damage the key or cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.
Another thing to try is using an alternate key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key has worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith ignition replacement cost at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an alternative key.
If the key doesn’t engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it might aid. Apply a small amount 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, you might need 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, in the event that it is required.
Check the Key
It is possible that your key has been damaged if it will not turn in the ignition. You can clean 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 helps.
If the pins within the lock aren’t moving correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after you insert it. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move as they should. If you don’t hear or feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This should allow the pins to slide into place 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 in the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your car. In this situation you’ll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.
If you are able to turn your car with an extra key and you’ve ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Try to open the lock by using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don’t use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it to allow you to turn your car key. If this is not working, you will need to replace the lock cylinder by a 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 is prone to getting blocked with debris, or simply wear and wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant into 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 pins that are out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.
It is important to check whether your car’s transmission is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. A lot of newer vehicles come with an option to lock the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned.
If you’ve tried these steps but your key is still unable to turn, it’s possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally speaking, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you’ll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then remove any fasteners holding it in place.
After removing the cover you’ll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you’ll have to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they’re identical. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the previous one.
It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly, so that your car will be able to start up again.