Nine Things That Your Parent Teach You About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Lock Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. The key may be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. This can be repaired by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

If your car ignition switch repair is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, there could be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to put the vehicle into the correct gear.

If it's still not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto ignition key replacement locksmith can fix these problems.

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

The key may become blocked with lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape that is used to keep packages in place. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem, you can try cleaning the key using a cloth or using a cleaner, like Triflow. You can also try a spare key to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will cause a small vibration, which could be enough to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide in place. However, you should be careful not to harm the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to contact a locksmith to test the issue. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can create a replacement key in the event that the issue is the key. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, the vehicle must be taken to a repair shop in order to have it replaced. Luckily, these issues are typically very simple to repair.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. This can happen if the driver accidentally engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It can also happen when someone in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.

This is a quick solution that doesn't require an appointment with a locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick examination of the steering column should confirm that the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is usually indicated by a small "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much pressure as this can damage the key, or even damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an alternate key to see if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers in 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 help. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this isn't working, you'll probably need to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. 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 has been damaged if it does not turn on. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc). You could also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it can help.

It's possible that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, you can put it into the ignition and gently removing it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins move inside. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to work with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need take your car to a locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you're able to turn your car using a spare key and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of the hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently can often release it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this is not working, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

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

You can also use a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the cylinder for ignition, to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure your car ignition replacement near me's gearbox is in neutral or park. A lot of newer vehicles come with a system which locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the ignition key from being turned.

If you have done all of this and still not able to get your key to turn, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. It is important to know that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this involves removing the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition key replacement cost assembly. To remove this cover, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in place.

Once the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to ensure that they are the same. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that when this happens you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you determine the correct replacement and then install it properly so that your vehicle can begin again.