9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer in it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder many times.

The pins of the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when you insert the key into the ignition, there might be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. This can be easily solved by moving the switch up or down to get the car in the correct gear.

If it is 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 ignition cylinder may also be worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease could solve this issue, letting wafers slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build over the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow to fix this issue. Also, you can use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide into place. However, you should be careful not to harm the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.

If all of the above solutions are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the entire thing. Locksmiths can make a replacement key in the event that the issue is the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause, you will need to take your vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. Luckily, these issues are typically very simple to repair.

Check the Steering Wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen if an individual in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.

Luckily it's an easy fix that doesn't require a trip a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter slowly until it shifts into one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will confirm that the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower part of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much force as this could cause damage to the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This may indicate that the original key has damaged and no capable of engaging the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an alternative key.

If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it could help. Apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then gently 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 supply you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key may be damaged if it will not turn on. You can try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this can help.

If the pins within the lock do not move properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, put it into the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be put into the keyhole. This should help the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and keep them from becoming stuck.

A more serious problem with your key could be that it is damaged or worn out and is unable to connect the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not turn, which will prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case, you will need to take your car ignition key replacement to an auto locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you are able to turn your car with an extra 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 attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of an Hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this is not working it is necessary to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert 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 debris, or just wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

You can also use the small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset the pins that are out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo it or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure that the car ignition lock's gearbox is in neutral or park. Many modern cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from turning into the ignition.

If you have tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is crucial to follow the correct steps.

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

After the cover has been removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to ensure that they're identical. After this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same way that you did with the old one.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it's advised to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you select the best replacement and install it correctly so that your vehicle can begin again.