Why is My car ignition locked (Read Home Page)?

There are many reasons why your ignition could be stuck. The key might be dirty or have a broken wafer inside it. You can fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder are stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key ignition replacement is inserted into the ignition, it may be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. This can be fixed by moving the shifter up or down to put the car ignition switch replacement into gear.

If the car still won't turn, the issue could be with the neutral safety cable, or the shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant can help solve this problem by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

The key may become blocked with lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape used to secure packages. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow, to solve this issue. It is also recommended to use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition.

While the key is in the ignition, you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. This can cause a small vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition which will allow them to slide in place. Be careful not to scratch 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 may be time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can make an alternative key in the event that the issue is the key. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, your car is required to be brought to a repair shop to have it replaced. These issues are usually simple to repair.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. This happens if the driver has a mistake and engages it when they exit or enter the vehicle. It is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it with their hands. It may also happen when an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.

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

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick look at the steering column will reveal if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label can be located in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the lock or pulling on it with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since this can damage the key, or even break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using an alternate key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no capable of engaging the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount around the ignition, and keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it begins to work. If this does not work, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local auto dealership. They'll be able provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn on the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.

It's possible 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 pulling it out. This should allow you to feel and hear if the internal lock pins move, as they should. If not, grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place as you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. In this instance, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you can turn your car with a spare key and you have eliminated any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder has been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of an hammer (not the head). A gentle tap on the cylinder can often release it which allows you to turn your key and start your car. If this is not working it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or just wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use a 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 careful not to overdo it, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is essential to ensure that your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many modern cars have the ability to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from turning in the ignition.

If you have tried these steps and your key still won't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. It is important to know that different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

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

Once the cover has been removed, you'll need to take the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they are the same. After this step is completed the new ignition cylinder is able to 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 an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you determine the correct replacement and then install it properly so that your car ignition switch repair can begin again.