The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition may be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer in it. This can be repaired by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the car ignition barrel replacement is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is switched on. This can be fixed by moving the shifter up or down to put the car ignition lock into the correct gear.

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

The ignition cylinder can also wear out. In time both the ignition and key can wear out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers slide into place.

The key may become blocked with lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to secure packages. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem try cleaning the keys with a cloth or using a cleaner such as Triflow. You can also try a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the key.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer, while it's in the ignition. This will cause a small vibration that could be enough to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide into place. However, you should be careful not to harm the ignition key or cylinder.

If all of the above methods fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key is damaged in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the entire thing. Locksmiths can make an alternate key in the event that the issue is the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the cause, you will need to bring the car to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A common issue that can hinder the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. 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 while balancing themselves against it with their hands. It can also happen when a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.

Luckily, this is an easy fix and does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should determine if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label can be located in the lower area 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 force, as it could damage the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key may also be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.

If the new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work you, it's possible to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

It could be that your key is damaged if it doesn't turn in the ignition. Try removing any foreign material from the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You could also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it can help.

It could be that the lock pins inside are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently pulling it out of the ignition after having put it in. This should allow you to feel and hear if the internal lock pins move as they ought to. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could grease them with graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your vehicle. In this case you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you're able to turn your car on with a spare key and you've ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of the Hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. 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 position when it is inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or just wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

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

It is crucial to confirm whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many newer cars have the ability to 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 the above and still can't get your key to turn it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to know that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally speaking, this involves taking off the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners holding it in place.

Once the cover is removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you will need to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they're identical. Following this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the old one.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that if this happens you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can begin again.