Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken 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 make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
If the car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there might be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter up or down to put the vehicle into gear.
If it is still not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic, or an auto locksmith in your area.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key will wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting the wafers slide into place.
The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build over the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To fix this issue you can try cleaning the keys with an old cloth or using a cleaner such as Triflow. It is also recommended to use a spare key to determine if the issue is related to the key or the ignition.
You can also tap the key using a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration, which may cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into the right position. Be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key.
If none of the above work, you should call a locksmith to check it out. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition or it could be the time to replace it all. A locksmith can make an alternate key in the event that the issue is the key. If the ignition cylinder is the cause then you'll have to take your vehicle to a repair shop for it to be repaired. These issues are usually simple to solve.
Check the steering wheel
A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to stop turning. This happens if the driver has a mistake and engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by yanking on the wheel while balancing themself against it using their hands. It could also happen if an individual in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they exit the vehicle.
Luckily, this is an easy fix and doesn't require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.
If the wheel isn't locked, a quick check of the steering column will determine if the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label in the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is important to not use too much pressure as this could cause damage to the key, or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
A spare key can be used to deactivate the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.
If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it could help. Simply spray a tiny amount of oil around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to work. If this doesn't help you, you might need to speak with a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.
Check the Key
If you are unable get your key to turn in the ignition, it is likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You should 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 moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test the spare key by gently pulling it out of the ignition once you have insert it. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving within. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into position when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.
It is possible that your key has worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your car. In this situation you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.
If you are able to turn your car with an extra key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of a hammer (not the head). Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will release it and allow you to turn your car key. If this is not working, you will need to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place where your key slides in and out when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or as due to wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this, or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.
Before you do this, make sure your car's gearbox is in neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. fix ignition switch could prevent the ignition key from being turned.
If you've tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is important to follow the correct procedure.
Generally, this means removal of the plastic cover which is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then remove any fasteners holding it in place.
After removing the cover you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one that you bought with the previous one to make sure they're the same. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the previous one.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and require replacement. It is suggested that if this happens you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to help you select the proper replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.