Some Wisdom On Car Ignition Lock From A Five-Year-Old
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.
The pins on the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer.
Check the Battery
The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is switched on. This can be easily 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 issue may be with the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time both the ignition and key may wear out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers to slide into place.
The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tape that holds packages together can build over the key, which prevents 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 an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. You should also make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition.
You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration that could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into the right position. You should be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder, or the key.
If all of the above options fail, it's probably time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. A locksmith can make an alternate key in the event that the issue is the key. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, the car must be taken to a repair shop in order to have it replaced. These issues are generally simple to repair.
Examine the Steering Wheel
A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. This happens if the driver accidentally engages it when they exit or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they get out of the car.
Fortunately it's a simple fix that doesn't require a trip a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter slowly until it changes into one of these positions. It is also essential 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 in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much pressure since this can damage the key, or even break a wafer in the lock cylinder.
A spare key can also be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.
If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil can help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you may need to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They'll be able to give you a new key and replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary.
Check the Key
It could be that your key has been damaged if it will not turn on. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You could also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.
If the pins in the lock do not move in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after having put it in. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, as they should. If not, you could grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and also prevent them from getting stuck.
A more serious issue with your key could be that it is worn or damaged and is unable to engage the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or repair shop for repair.
If you're able to turn the vehicle with a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to unlock the lock with the blunt screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Do not use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work will happen, you'll have to get your lock cylinder changed by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when inserted. It is often filled with debris or simply due to wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.
You can also use the small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset pins that are out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.
It is essential to ensure that your car's gearbox is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. Many newer cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from turning in the ignition.
If you've tried all of this and still cannot get your key to turn it is most likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder is in need of replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then loosen any fasteners that are holding it in place.
After removing the cover you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one that you purchased with the original one to make sure they are a perfect match. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the previous one.
Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition can become damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you determine the correct replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.