Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working

The ignition lock is a safety feature that prevents you from starting your car unless have the original key. It is triggered by using the steering wheel to support you when getting into or out of your car or touching it while you are parked.

It can also be caused through theft or vandalism. You can repair your key if it is struggling to turn it.

The ignition switch

The ignition switch is a vital element of your vehicle. It's among the first switches you turn on your vehicle, and it activates almost all other systems in the car too. When it fails, it can cause numerous issues.

The main reason the ignition switch in your car could fail is due to wear and tear. It could happen in time, particularly when you have other items on your keychain that weigh it down. You can prevent this from happening by having separate sets of keys for your home and car, and also by reducing the weight on your keychain. Another reason is mechanical issues. It can be difficult to insert or remove the key if the cylinder for ignition is not aligned properly. If this happens you'll have to get it replaced.

In addition to these mechanical problems Your ignition switch could be failing due to an electrical issue. In this case, you might notice smoke or a burning odor when you attempt to start your vehicle. It is essential to replace it immediately to avoid further damage.

Another reason you might not be able to start your car is because the ignition switch is stuck in the ON position. This is an alarm system that blocks anyone from removing your key and re-starting the engine. Usually, this means you have too much pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't working properly.

In this instance it is possible to lubricate the lock to see if it helps. This will remove any dirt particles that may be preventing the key from turning, and you can try it again. You can also use a silicone-based lubricant to keep dirt from accumulating inside the lock. If you still have trouble try wiggle the key and then inserting it again.

The lock the cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder in a car is the mechanical component where the key gets in to start the car. The pins in the cylinder move up and down, allowing the key to enter and turn. It also has wafer tumblers that hold the pins in place. Over time, these tumblers can wear down or break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder may eventually fail completely, causing dead batteries and other issues with your car's starting.

Cylinder locks are the most well-known type of car ignition lock (full report) lock. The outer shell features a cylindrical hole which houses the plug. The shell that covers the outside of a cylinder lock is generally made of steel. The plug is typically bronze or brass. Cylinder locks come with a variety of different pins, which permit them to lock or unlock in multiple ways. Some cylinder locks have additional security measures such as a snap-line or additional pins to guard against bumping of the lock.

It is possible to fine-tune a difficult lock with graphite, but these methods aren't always effective for long. A more reliable solution is to buy a brand new ignition lock cylinder. You can do this by taking the old cylinder for your ignition lock from your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. New keys are required for a new cylinder.

The cost of replacing the ignition lock cylinder is usually less than $300 for the standard systems. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more costly to change. It is important that the process of replacing an ignition cylinder is performed by an accredited professional. This is because it involves removing components that could affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags).

You'll need to unplug the negative battery cable before you can replace the battery. This is important to prevent an accidental airbag deployment. You'll also want to disable the airbag system if it is equipped with one. You must follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer. You'll have to reset the anti-theft codes after installing the new ignition lock. This will prevent your car being taken. It could require a special tool.

The crucial

If your key turns but fails to start the vehicle it could be a sign that your ignition lock isn't working. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the right key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a mechanical part that works with an electrical component to "read" anti-theft coding to enable your vehicle to start. As time passes the key could wear out or damage the wafer tumblers in the lock cylinder. This could make it difficult to turn.

While a new key is usually the best solution however, you can also try basic troubleshooting to help fix your car ignition problem at home. Make sure your key is in its proper position and that the indicator is pointed to the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If it's not, that could stop the engine from beginning and a quick visit with your auto dealer may be necessary to find out the root of the problem.

Another method is to jiggle the the ignition key replacement switch, but be careful not to apply too much force or pressure. This could cause small damage to the wafer tumblers which is stopping it from turning. If this fails, you can try applying lubricant to the lock cylinder using an lubricant made of silicone to get it moving again.

These lubricants can be found at your local auto parts store. However, you should use a high-quality lubricant to prevent dirt from building up. This will cause more issues down the road. If all else fails you'll need to take off the ignition cylinder and replace it with a brand new one. This is a simple procedure that a majority of DIYers can follow with the aid of online guides or an auto repair ignition lock cylinder manual.

If you've been recently arrested for the crime of DUI or DWI the state you live in might require that you install an ignition interlock device (IID). These devices are designed to deter drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe through a tube before they can start their car. The device is installed by a certified provider, such as Intoxalock or LifeSafer.

The wiring

In many automobiles the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected with wires. When you put your key in the ignition the current flows through these wires and triggers all of the electrical systems within your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't working or the switch isn't turning on it could be because the wire has been cut off. If you can't find the problem, it may be necessary to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder.

Ignition Interlock Devices

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a car breathalyzer that must be installed in your vehicle as part of a criminal sanction or a legal obligation. Ignition interlocks detect alcohol use disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath prior to when the engine of the vehicle can be started. If the IID detects that the driver's BAC is higher than the permitted limit, the horn will sound and/or the lights flash, indicating that the driver can pull over and retest.

Ignition Interlocks are a great option for people suffering from an alcohol-related disorder, as they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to getting the car started. They are small, discreet and can be hidden to keep them from being noticed. The cost of ignition key replacement cost interlocks ranges from $60-90 per month. They are not bought in bulk.

The ignition switch and ignition cylinder work together to control all of the electrical parts in your car. The ignition won't work when one of these components are damaged or worn. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it is important to fix them as quickly as possible.

If you are having trouble starting your vehicle, try placing the key into neutral or park, and then turning it. If this doesn't work you might need to take off the airbag and disconnect the battery to get access to the ignition switch. This is a fairly simple task that can be accomplished using a steering wheel puller or GM key removal tool, which you can rent through AutoZone's loan-a tool service for free.