Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons your ignition might be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be corrected by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

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

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when you insert the key into the ignition, there could be a problem with the transmission shifter switch. You can fix ignition lock it by moving the gear shifter upwards or down to get the vehicle into the gear.

If it's still not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key can wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease could solve this issue, letting wafers slide into place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build up 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 should also utilize a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.

While the key is in ignition you can tap it with a a small piece of hammer. This can cause a small vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition which will allow them to slide into position. However, you should be cautious not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.

If all of the above options are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it completely. A locksmith can make an alternate key in the event that the issue is with the key. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, your car is required to be brought into a repair shop to get it replaced. Fortunately, these issues are usually very easy to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel while resting it against their body. It can also happen if a passenger in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they exit the vehicle.

This is a straightforward solution that doesn't require going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it shifts into one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick examination of the steering column should confirm that the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label can be located in the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to apply excessive force since it could damage the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another option is using an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to get it working. If this isn't working, you'll probably need to visit a specialist at your local auto dealership. They will be able to provide you with a new key and replace the van ignition repair cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key is damaged if it doesn't engage in the ignition. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You could also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it helps.

It's possible that the internal lock pins aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, you can put it in the ignition and gently sliding it back out. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, which they should. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you can lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

It is possible that your key has worn out or damaged and isn't able to connect with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn, which will prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need to take your car to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance.

If you are able to turn your car using an extra key and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to unlock the lock with an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it and allow you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this is not working then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when you insert it. Most of the time, it gets filled with debris or as due to wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.

You can also use a small hammer and tap very gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, make sure the car's gearbox is in neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have an electronic system that locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned.

If you have tried all of these methods and your key doesn't turn, it could be that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is crucial to follow the correct procedures.

Generally speaking, this involves removal of the plastic cover which is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After you have removed the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to make sure that they are the same. Following this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder the same manner as the old one.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you select the best replacement and install it correctly so that your car can begin again.