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Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.
Another possibility is that the pins inside 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
The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. You can fix this by moving the gear shifter up or down to get the vehicle into gear.
If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or shifter on the transmission. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic, or a local automotive locksmith.
The ignition cylinder may also wear out. In time, both the ignition and key can become worn out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant can help solve this problem by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into place.
The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. Clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow to resolve this issue. You could also try a spare key in order to determine if the issue is the ignition or the key.
When the key is in ignition you can tap it using a a small piece of hammer. This will cause a small vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into the right position. You should be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or key.
If all of the above solutions fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. It could be that the key has been damaged inside the ignition or it could be the time to replace the entire thing. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith can create a new key for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, the car will need to be brought to a repair shop to have it repaired. Fortunately, these issues are usually very easy to fix.
Check the steering wheel
A simple problem that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel while they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen when a passenger in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they exit the vehicle.
Fortunately it's a simple fix that does not require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, make sure that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it shifts into one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick check of the steering column should confirm that the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label can be found in the lower portion the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling it or pulling on it with moderate force. It is essential not to use excessive force since this could cause damage to the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an alternative key.
If the new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this does not work, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to give you a new key and replace the ignition cylinder in the event that it is required.
Check the Key
If you are unable get your key to turn in the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.
It could be that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test the spare key by gently pulling it out of the ignition after you insert it. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving within. If you don't feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into position when you insert the key, and keep them from getting stuck.
It is possible that your key has become worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need to take your vehicle to a locksmith or repair shop for service.
If you can turn your car on with a spare key, and you've ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to unlock the lock by using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will loosen it and allow you to turn your car key. 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 your key slides in and out of place when you insert it. It is often covered in debris or is a result of regular wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.
It is crucial to confirm that your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many modern cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park, which can prevent the key from turning into the ignition.
If you've done all of this but not able to get your key to rotate it is most likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need 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. Then, you will need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are the same. After this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder in the same manner as the old one.
Sometimes, despite fix ignition switch of our efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car can be started again.
