10 Meetups About Car Ignition Lock You Should Attend

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your car ignition switch replacement ignition may be locked. The key could be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. This can be repaired 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 make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can fix it by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to put the car into the correct gear.

If it is still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time both the ignition and key may wear out, making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, could aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. To solve this problem try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. Also, you can make use of a spare key to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.

When the key is in the ignition you can tap it with an hammer that is small. This will create a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide into position. You must be cautious not to scratch the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If none of the above work, you should call a locksmith to check the issue. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can create an alternate key in the event that the issue is the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car must be taken to a repair shop to have it replaced. Luckily, these issues are usually very easy to solve.

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 while they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It could also happen if a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car.

Fortunately, this is an easy fix that doesn't require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, make sure the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter slowly until it moves into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick check of the steering column should reveal if the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. This is usually indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much pressure since it could damage the key, or break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

A spare key may also be used to disengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is damaged and no more able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil could aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this does not work, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They can provide you with a replacement key and can also replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this helps.

If the pins in the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently pulling it out of the ignition once you have put it in. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving inside. If you don't feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key may be that it has become worn or damaged, making it unable to engage the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This can cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. In this instance you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you are able to turn your car using an extra key, and you have eliminated any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the lost ignition key cylinder has been worn out. You can try to unlock the lock using the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will loosen it and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this doesn't work will happen, you'll have to get the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and slides out of place when inserted. Most of the time, it gets gunked up with debris or is the result of wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

You can also make use of a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, ensure that the car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. Many newer cars come with a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have done all of the above and still not able to get your key to turn, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct steps.

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

Once the cover is removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then important to check the new one that you bought with the original one to ensure that they are a perfect match. Following this step is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the previous one.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition can become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is advised to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your car can start again.