Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition could be stuck. The key could be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. This can be corrected by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is turned on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch upwards or downwards to get the car into the correct gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the issue could be related to the neutral safety cable or the shifter in the transmission. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or a local locksmith for cars.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out, making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant can aid in solving this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

The key could get clogged with lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to hold packages together. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the key using an old cloth or using an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. You should also use a spare key to determine if the issue is related to the key or the ignition.

While the key is in the ignition, you can tap it with a the hammer with a small amount. This will cause a slight vibration that might cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. But, be very careful not to harm the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to call a locksmith to check it out. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder or it could be the time to replace it all. Locksmiths can create a replacement key if the issue is the key. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle must be taken to a repair shop to have it replaced. These issues are usually simple to fix.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen when a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel while they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It may also happen when an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car.

Fortunately, this is an easy fix and doesn't require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the shifter is either in Park or neutral. If it's not then 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 prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick examination of the steering column should reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically indicated by a small "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much pressure as this can damage the key, or break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using an additional key to determine whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and is no longer able to engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case.

If the new key still won't engage, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work, you'll likely need to see an expert at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

It could be that your key has been damaged if it doesn't engage in the ignition. You can get rid of 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 this aids.

It is possible that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after having put it in. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving inside. If not, lubricate the pins with powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key and keep them from becoming stuck.

A more serious problem with your key may be that it has damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder lock repair cylinder. This can cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you're able to turn your car with a spare key, and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder has been worn out. You can try to unlock the lock with the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Don't use the head. Gently tapping on the cylinder will usually free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have your lock cylinder changed by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key slides in and out when inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with dust, or simply wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

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

It is crucial to confirm whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This could prevent the ignition key from turning.

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

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that hold it in place.

Once the cover is removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one that you have purchased with the original one to make sure they are a perfect match. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, the ignition can be damaged and need to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens, you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your car can start again.