The 9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition might be stuck. The key could be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. This can be corrected by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times.

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder are stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to gently tap on 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 may be a problem with the transmission shifter switch. This can be easily solved by moving the switch upwards or downwards to get the car in the gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable, or the shifter on the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily fix these issues.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key will wear out, causing them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, can help solve this problem by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To solve this problem you can try cleaning the key with an old cloth or using a cleaner, such as Triflow. It is also recommended to make use of a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition.

While the key is in the ignition, you can tap it using a a small piece of hammer. This can cause a small vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers in the van ignition repair and allow them to slide in place. However, you must be careful not to damage the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the above work, you should consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the whole thing. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can make a new one for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the car ignition barrel replacement must be taken to a repair shop to get it replaced. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Check the steering wheel

A common issue that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It could happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It could also happen if a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.

Luckily, this is an easy fix and doesn't require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter gently until it moves into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked taking a look at the steering column will tell whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually marked by a tiny "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the lock or pulling it down with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much pressure as it could damage the key, or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using a spare key to see if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.

If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this does not work, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key is damaged if it will not engage in the ignition. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You could also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it helps.

It could be that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, try placing it in the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving within. If not, you could lubricate the pins with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem is that it is worn or damaged which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins inside the ignition lock repair cylinder. This can cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you're able to turn your Car Ignition Lock using a spare key, and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver or handle of an Hammer (not the head). A gentle tap on the cylinder can often release it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work it is necessary to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition lock repair socket is the place your key is inserted and slides out of position when it is inserted. It is often covered in debris or is due to wear and wear and tear. You can try squirting 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 to try to loosen or reset the pins that are not aligned. Again, be very careful not to overdo it or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is essential to ensure whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many newer cars come with a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This could prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have tried all of these methods and your key still won't turn, it could be that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is important to follow the correct procedures.

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then remove any fasteners that hold it in place.

After removing the cover you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they're identical. After this step is completed the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition can become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's advised to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will be able to assist you in selecting the right replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.