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Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition could be stuck. The key might be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many 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

If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when you insert the key into the ignition, it could be an issue with the shifter switch for the transmission. This can be easily fixed by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car in the correct gear.

If it's not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant can aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to secure packages. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow, to solve this issue. Also, you can utilize a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition.

While the key is in ignition, you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This will cause a small vibration, which could cause enough vibration to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide in the right position. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder or the key.

If all of the above methods fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key might be broken in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be the time to replace it all. Locksmiths can make a replacement key if the issue is the key. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, the vehicle is required to be brought to a repair shop to have it repaired. Luckily, these problems are usually very easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A simple issue that could hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This occurs when the driver accidentally engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle. It is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themself against it with their hands. It could also happen if an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.

This is a simple fix that doesn't require an appointment with a locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter slowly until it shifts into one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked a quick look at the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically found in the lower portion the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since it could damage the key or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using a spare key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key has worn out and no capable of engaging the wafers in 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 key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it may aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work you, it's possible to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They can provide you with a replacement key and can also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.

Check fix ignition switch is possible that your key may be damaged if it will not turn in the ignition. You can get rid of 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 it helps.

It could be that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, put it into the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving inside. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you can grease them with graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and also prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue is that it is damaged or worn, making it unable to engage the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. If this happens, you will need to bring your car to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you are able to turn your car with an extra key, and you've ruled out any issues with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has been worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of the Hammer (not the head). A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it and allow you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have your lock's cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and slides out of position when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or as due to wear and 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 a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo this, or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, make sure your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. A lot of newer cars come with an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park, which can prevent the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you have done all of this and still can't get your key to rotate, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

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





After removing the cover you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one that you bought with the original one to ensure that they are an identical match. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition could be damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and then install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will start again.