9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Car Ignition Lock
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why your ignition might be stuck. The key could be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.
The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen them.
Check the Battery
The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter up or downward to get the car Ignition lock into gear.
If it is still not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily fix these problems.
It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key will wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease could solve this issue, letting wafers slide into place.
The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build up 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 solve this issue. Also, you can make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition.
You could also tap the key with a small hammer, while it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration, which could be enough to loosen up the wafers inside the ignition and let them slide into place. But, be cautious not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.
If none of the above work, you need to call a locksmith to check it out. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder or it could be the time to replace it all. If the issue is with the key the locksmith can make a new one for you. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle will need to be brought into a repair shop to have it replaced. These issues are usually simple to repair.
Check the steering wheel
A simple issue that could hinder the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. This happens if the driver is unable to engage it as they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It can also happen when a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car.
Fortunately it's an easy fix and does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure the shifter is either in 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 is not locked, a quick check of the steering column should confirm that the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the key or pulling it back with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much pressure, as this could cause damage to the key, or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
Another thing to try is using an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is damaged and no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.
If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it could aid. Just apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it begins to work. If this isn't working, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary.
Check the Key
If you are unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.
It's possible that the internal lock pins aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, you can try placing it in the ignition, then gently pulling it out. This should let you feel and hear if the internal lock pins move as they should. If not, you can grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be put into the keyhole. This will allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and also prevent them from getting stuck.
It could be that your key has damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This may cause the ignition cylinder to not turn, which will prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need to bring your car ignition key replacement 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. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of an hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it and allow you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does nothing then you'll need the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when inserted. Most of the time, it gets gunked up with debris or simply due to wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.
You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.
It is essential to ensure whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park prior to attempting this. Many newer cars come with a system which locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This could prevent the ignition key from turning.
If you have done all of this and still not able to get your key to rotate it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is crucial to follow the correct steps.
This usually involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in place.
After removing the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one you have purchased with the previous one to make sure they are a perfect match. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way as the old one.
It is possible that despite our best efforts, the ignition could be damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and then install it properly so that your car can restart.