Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. The key might be dirty or have a broken wafer inside it. You can fix it 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 with a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is switched on. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to get the vehicle into gear.
If it's not turning, the problem may be with the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic or an auto locksmith in your area.
It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over G28 Car Keys , the ignition as well as 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 the wafers slide into place.
The key may become blocked by lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to secure packages. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow to resolve this issue. You should also use a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.
While the key is in the ignition you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This can cause a slight vibration, which could cause enough vibration to loosen the ignition's wafers and let them slide into the right position. But, be cautious not to scratch the ignition key or 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 inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the entire thing. Locksmiths can create a replacement 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. Luckily, these issues are generally easy to solve.
Check the Steering Wheel
A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.
This is a simple fix that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter slowly until it shifts into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake button or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.
If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will reveal if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower area of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the lock or pulling on it 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 unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.
If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it might help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't work, you may need to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They can provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.
Check the Key
If you are unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this helps.
If the pins in the lock aren't moving in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, try putting it into the ignition and gently removing it. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move as they ought to. 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 to slide into place when you insert the key and keep them from becoming stuck.
A more serious issue with your key could be that it has become damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning and prevent you from starting your car. In this instance you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.
If you're able to turn your car with an extra key, and you have eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. It is often covered in debris or simply a result of regular wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also use a small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Be very careful to not overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch.
Before you try this, ensure that your car's gearbox is in neutral or park. A lot of newer cars come with a system that can stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from being turned into the ignition.
If you've done all of this but not able to get your key to turn it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to know that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally, this involves removal of the plastic cover which is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners that hold it in place.
Once the cover has been removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are identical. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.
Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition may be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly, so that your car can start again.