The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Car Ignition Lock
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.
The pins of the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there could be an issue with the shifter switch for the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to get the car into gear.
If it's not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or by a local automotive locksmith.
It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time both the ignition and key can become worn out, making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers slide into place.
The key could get clogged by lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape that is used to keep packages in place. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow, to solve this problem. You can also try a spare key to determine if the issue is the ignition or the key.
When the key is in the ignition you can tap it with a a small piece of hammer. This will create a tiny vibration, which could be enough to loosen up the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide in place. However, you should be cautious not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.
If all of the above options fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key has been damaged inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can make an alternative key if the problem is the key. If the ignition cylinder is the cause then you'll have to take the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be repaired. These problems are usually easy to solve.
Check the steering wheel
A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen if a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.
This is a simple solution that doesn't require going to the locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick examination of the steering column will reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much force as this could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
A spare key can be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the original key has worn out and is no more able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case.
If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this does not work, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local auto dealer. They can supply you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.
Check the Key
If you are unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint, 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 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 into the ignition and gently pulling it out. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move as they should. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and keep them from becoming stuck.
A more serious issue is that it has damaged or worn and is unable to connect the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning 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 assistance.
If you can turn your vehicle with a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of the hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your car. If this does not work it is necessary to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key can slide in and out when you insert it. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or is a result of regular wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.
You can also use the small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset pins that are out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo this, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you attempt this, make sure the car ignition lock's gearbox is either in park or neutral. A lot of newer vehicles come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This will stop the ignition key from turning.
If you've tried all of these methods and your key still won't turn, it could be that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners that are holding it in the position.
Once the cover has been removed, you will need to remove the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you will 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 can be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.
It is possible that even with our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it is advised to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.