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Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition may be stuck. The key might be dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be repaired by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder multiple times.

The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can fix it by moving the gear shifter up or downward to get the vehicle into the gear.

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

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

The key may become blocked by lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth or a cleaner like Triflow to resolve this issue. You may also try a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.

While the key is in the ignition you can tap it using a a small piece of hammer. This can cause a small vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition and allow them to slide into position. Be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or the key.

If all of the above options fail, it's likely to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. If the problem is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, your car is required to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it repaired. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to fix.





Examine the Steering Wheel

A common issue that can stop the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. This happens if the driver has a mistake and engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themselves against it with their hands. It could also happen if someone in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they exit the vehicle.

This is a straightforward solution that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not, gently push or pull 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 an inspection of the steering column will reveal if the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually marked by a tiny "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling it or pulling it back with moderate force. It is essential not to use excessive force since this could cause damage to the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. auto locksmith ignition replacement could mean that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make a replacement key.

If the new key still won't engage, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can aid. Apply a small amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit an expert at your local auto dealer. They'll be able provide you with a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

It could be that your key has been damaged if it does not turn in the ignition. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You may also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it can help.

If the pins within the lock aren't moving correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after you insert it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins move inside. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you can grease them with graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be put into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to work with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder to stop to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case, you will need to bring your car to a locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you are able to turn your car with an extra key, and you've ruled out any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to unlock the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Often, tapping gently on the cylinder will loosen it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does nothing, you'll need to have your lock cylinder changed by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key is inserted and slides out of place when inserted. Most of the time, it gets gunked up with debris or simply due to wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use the small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset the pins that are out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it as you could cause severe 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. A lot of newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you've done all of this but not able to get your key to rotate, it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

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

After the cover has been removed, you'll need to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one you have purchased with the original one to make sure they're the same. After this you can then install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way as the previous one.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, the ignition could be damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly, so that your car will be able to start up again.