Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer in it. It is possible to fix car ignition this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter up or down to put the car into gear.

If it's not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or an auto locksmith in your area.

It is 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 lubricant, could solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

The key can become clogged with lint in your pockets and adhesive from tape that is used to secure packages. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow to resolve this problem. You could also try a spare key in order to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition and key replacement, allowing them to slide in place. However, you should be very careful not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the above work, you should call a locksmith to check it out. It could be that the key is broken inside the ignition or it may 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 need to take your vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. Luckily, these problems are generally easy to repair.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. It could happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel while holding it against their body. It can also happen if a passenger in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

Fortunately it's a simple fix and does a new ignition switch require a new key not require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, check that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it shifts into one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked a quick look at the steering column will tell if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower part of the ignition barrel replacement near me circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is important to not use too much pressure as it could damage the key, or even break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another option is using an additional key to determine whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.

If the new key still won't engage, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can assist. Just apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to engage. If this doesn't work you, you might need to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They'll be able provide you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn in the ignition, it's possible that something is wrong with your key. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

It is possible that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, you can try putting it in the ignition, then gently sliding it back out. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move as they ought to. If not, you could grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This should allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and keep them from becoming stuck.

It could be that your key has become damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn and stop you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need to take your car to an auto locksmith ignition replacement locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you are able to turn your vehicle with an extra key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to unlock the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will release it to allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. It is often gunked up with debris or as a result of regular wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

You can also use the small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Again, be very careful not to overdo it or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, make sure that the car's gearbox is in neutral or park. Many newer cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park, which can prevent the key from turning into the ignition.

If you've tried all of this but can't get your key to rotate it is most likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. It is important to know that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

This usually involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in the position.

After the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they are identical. Once this step is complete, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same way that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition will be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is advised to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.