Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition could be stuck. The key could be dirty or may have a damaged wafer in it. This can be fixed by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder multiple times.

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder are stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there might be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. This can be easily fixed by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the Car Ignition Lock in the correct gear.

If it's still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can fix these issues.

The mobile ignition lock repair services cylinder can also wear out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, causing them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant can aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to resolve this problem. You may also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.

While the key is in the ignition you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. This will create a slight vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition which will allow them to slide in place. You must be cautious not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to call a locksmith to check it out. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the entire thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith can create a new key for you. If the cylinder in the ignition is the problem then you'll have to bring the car to a repair ignition lock cylinder shop for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to solve.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A common issue that can hinder the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It could happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel while holding it against their body. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they get out of the car.

This is a quick solution that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it changes into one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick examination of the steering column should confirm that the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower portion of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important to not use too much pressure as it could damage the key, or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it might help. Just apply a small amount around the ignition, and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn't help you, it's possible to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They will be able to give you a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key may be damaged if it doesn't turn in the ignition. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.

If the pins in the lock do not move in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key to test, you can try putting it in the ignition, then gently sliding it back out. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, which they should. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder to stop to turn, and prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need take your vehicle to a locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you're able to turn your car with a spare key and you have ruled out any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock with an abrasive screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will loosen it to allow you to turn the key of your car ignition switch replacement. If this does nothing then you'll need your lock cylinder changed by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key slides into and out of position when it is inserted. Often times, it gets filled with debris or is a result of regular wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also make use of a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the lost ignition key cylinder in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this, or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, make sure the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. Many newer cars come with a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the ignition key from turning.

If you have done all of the above and still not able to get your key to rotate it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is essential to follow the correct procedures.

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

Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder off 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're identical. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same manner as the old one.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you choose the right replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will begin again.