9 Lessons 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 may be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. This can be fixed 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 could tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
If the car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there could be an issue with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be solved by moving the switch up or down to get the car ignition key replacement into the gear.
If the car still won't turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable or transmission shifter. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or by a local automotive locksmith.
The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. Over time, the ignition lock repair as well as the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, could aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.
The key may become blocked with lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape that is used to secure packages. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. Also, you can make use of a spare key to determine if the issue is related to the key or the ignition.
When the key is in the ignition, you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This will cause a small vibration, which could cause enough vibration to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide in the right position. You should be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key.
If none of the suggestions above work, you should consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the whole thing. If the problem is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, your car is required to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it repaired. These problems are usually easy to fix.
Make sure you check the steering Wheel
A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It may also happen when someone in the back seat is unable to stop it when they get out of the car ignition lock, Read the Full Guide,.
This is a simple fix that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is either 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 important to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.
If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will reveal whether the key is engaged with the lock. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important not to use too much force as this could cause damage to the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and is no longer 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 new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can help. Simply spray a tiny amount of oil around the ignition and keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this isn't working, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local auto dealer. They will be able to provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.
Check the Key
If you're unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. Try removing any foreign material from the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You could also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.
If the pins inside the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test the spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after having put it in. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If you don't feel any movement, you can grease them with graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and prevent them from becoming stuck.
It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not turn and stop you from starting your vehicle. In this case, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.
If you're able to turn your car on with a spare key and you have ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver or handle of a hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place your key slides in and out of place when you insert it. It is often gunked up with debris or as due to wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.
You can also use a small hammer to gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you try this, make sure the gearbox of your car is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from being turned in the ignition.
If you've done all of this but not able to get your key to turn it is most likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. 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 over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners holding it in the position.
Once the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one you purchased with the original one to make sure they are an identical match. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same way as the previous one.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's advised to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and install it correctly so that your vehicle can start again.
