10 Undeniable Reasons People Hate Car Ignition Lock
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons your ignition might be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be repaired by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.
Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently with a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is turned on. You can fix this by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to get the car into the gear.
If it's still not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic, or a local locksmith for cars.
The ignition cylinder lock repair cylinder may also be worn out. Over time, both the ignition and key may wear out, making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, can solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into place.
The filth from your pockets and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to resolve this problem. Also, you can utilize a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.
You could also tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition which will allow them to slide into place. You should be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder or key.
If none of the above works, you must consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition or it could be the time to replace it all. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can create a new key for you. If the ignition cylinder is the issue then you'll have to take your car to a repair shop for it to be repaired. Luckily, these issues are generally easy to fix.
Check the steering wheel
A simple problem that can prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It could happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with 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 when an individual in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.
This is a simple fix that doesn't involve going to the 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 moves to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to attempting 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 is typically 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 important to not apply too much pressure, as this could cause damage to the key or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key.
If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may aid. Just apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this doesn't work, you will likely need to see an expert at your local dealership for cars. They can provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.
Check the Key
It is possible that your key has been damaged if it doesn't turn on. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it helps.
It is possible that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test a spare key by gently sliding 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 can lubricate them with graphite powder. You can purchase 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 prevent them from getting stuck.
It could be that your key has worn out or damaged and isn't able to connect with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and stop you from starting your car. If this is the case you'll need to take your vehicle to a locksmith or repair shop for repair ignition lock cylinder.
If you're able to turn the car using 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. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of a hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder can free it to allow you to turn your car key. If this is not working, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place where your key slides in and out when you insert it. It is often gunked up with debris or simply the result of 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 effort to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it as you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.
It is crucial to confirm that your car's gearbox is set to park or neutral prior to attempting this. A lot of newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park, which can prevent the key from turning in the ignition.
If you've tried all of these methods but your key is still unable to turn, it's possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.
This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that hold it in the position.
Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one that you purchased with the original one to make sure they're the same. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.
It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition could be damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and then install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will begin again.