Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are a variety of reasons the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder many times.
The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter up or down to get the car into the correct gear.
If the car still won't turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter on the transmission. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or an auto locksmith in your area.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. In time both the ignition and key can wear out, making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease could solve this problem, allowing the wafers to slide into the proper position.
The key could get clogged by 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 solve this problem, you can try cleaning the key using an old cloth or using a cleaner, like Triflow. You could also test a spare key to determine if the issue is the key or ignition.
When the key is in the ignition you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This can cause a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen up the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into the right position. Be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder or key.
If none of the suggestions above work, you should contact a locksmith to test the issue. The key may be damaged inside the ignition cylinder or it could be time to replace it completely. Locksmiths can create an alternate key if the problem is with the key. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, the car is required to be brought into a repair shop to get it replaced. Luckily, these problems are typically very simple to solve.
Examine the Steering Wheel
A common issue that can stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This can happen if the driver is unable to engage it when they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by yanking on the wheel and securing themselves against it with their hands. It could also happen when an individual in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.
Luckily, this is an easy fix that doesn't require a trip an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it changes into one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake button or activate 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 has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label can be located in the lower area of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is important not to use too much force as this could cause damage to the key or cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an alternative key.
If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it could aid. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to engage. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They'll be able to give you a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.
Check the Key
If you are unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it can help.
It could be that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can try putting it into the ignition and gently removing it. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving within. If you don't feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place as you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.
It is possible that your key has 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 to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need to take your car to a locksmith or repair shop for service.
If you're able to turn the vehicle with a spare key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of a hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does nothing then you'll need your lock cylinder changed by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key can slide in and out when inserted. It can get clogged up with dust, or simply wear and wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder in an effort to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo it or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
It is essential to ensure that your car's transmission is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. Many modern cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from turning in the ignition.
If you've tried all of this and still not able to get your key to rotate, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then loosen any fasteners holding it in place.
After you have removed the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you will need to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they're identical. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same manner as the previous one.
Sometimes, despite ignition cylinder replacement near me of our best efforts, the ignition can become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you select the best replacement and install it correctly so that your vehicle can restart.