Don t Buy Into These "Trends" 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 broken wafer in 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 lightly using a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is turned on. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the car into the correct gear.
If the car still won't turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable or transmission shifter. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or by a local automotive locksmith.
The ignition cylinder could also wear out. Over time, the ignition and the key will wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, could help solve this problem by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.
The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape used to secure packages. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. Also, you can utilize a spare key in order to determine if the issue is related to the key or the ignition.
You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This will cause a small vibration, which could be enough to loosen the wafers inside the mobile ignition lock repair services and let them slide into place. However, you must be very careful not to damage the key or the ignition cylinder.
If none of the suggestions above work, you need to call a locksmith to check it out. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the entire thing. A locksmith can make an alternate key in the event that the issue is with the key. If the ignition cylinder is the problem then you'll need to take the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to repair.
Check the steering wheel
A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to stop turning. This happens if the driver accidentally engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking on the wheel and securing themself against it using their hands. It can also happen when someone in the back seat is unable to stop it when they get out of the car.
This is a straightforward fix that doesn't involve an appointment with a locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it moves 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 isn't locked, a quick check of the steering column should determine if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling on it with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much pressure as this can damage the key or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
Another thing to try is using a spare key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key has worn out and no longer able to 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 alternative key.
If the key still doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it could help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to get it working. If this doesn't help you, it's possible to seek out a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to give you a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.
Check the Key
If you are unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this can help.
If the pins inside the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, put it in the ignition, then gently pulling it out. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move as they ought to. If not, grease the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.
It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to connect with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need to bring your car to repair or locksmith ignition replacement cost shop for assistance.
If you're able to turn your car ignition switch with a spare key and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to unlock the lock with the blunt screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Gently tapping on the cylinder will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't 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 is inserted and slides out of place when inserted. It can get clogged up with dust, or simply wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move forward.
You can also use a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be very careful to not overdo it, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you do this, make sure that your car's gearbox is in neutral or park. A lot of newer cars come with the ability to lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from turning in the ignition.
If you've 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 important to follow the correct procedures.
This typically involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.
Once the cover is removed, you'll need to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they are the same. After this step is completed the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the old one was removed.
Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition will be damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help choose the right replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.