Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition might be stuck. The key might be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. You can fix car ignition it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is turned on. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter up or down to put the car into the gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or shifter on the transmission. They can be fixed by a mechanic or a local automotive locksmith.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key may wear out, causing them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease could solve this issue, letting the wafers slide into place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can build up on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow to resolve this issue. Also, you can utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition which will allow them to slide in place. Be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder or the key.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the whole thing. A locksmith can make an alternate key if the problem is with the key. If the ignition cylinder is the problem, you will need to bring the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. Luckily, these problems are usually very easy to repair.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A simple problem that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This happens if the driver accidentally engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themselves against it with their hands. It could also happen if someone in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.

Fortunately, this is an easy fix that does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure the gear shift is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake button or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will confirm that the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure, as this could cause damage to the key or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use an alternate key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key has damaged and no more able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the key does not engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it might help. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this doesn't work, you will likely have to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They can provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

It could be that your key has been damaged if it does not engage in the ignition. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it helps.

If the pins in the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can put it into the ignition and gently removing it. This should allow you to feel and hear if the internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If not, apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious problem with your key could be that it has become damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need bring your car to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you are able to turn your car using 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. You can try to unlock the lock using the blunt screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have your lock cylinder changed by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key is inserted and slides out of place when you insert it. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or just wear and wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

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

It is crucial to confirm whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park prior to attempting this. Many newer cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from being turned into the ignition.

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

This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that hold it in place.

After you have removed the cover, you'll have 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 that was removed to confirm that they're identical. Once this is done, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, an ignition could be damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and then install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will start again.