Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition in your car ignition key replacement may be locked. The key might be dirty or may have a damaged wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times.

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there might be a problem with the shifter switch for the transmission. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter up or down to put the vehicle into gear.

If the car ignition switch repair doesn't turn, the problem could be due to the neutral safety cable, or the transmission shifter. 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, causing them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, could solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into place.

The key may become blocked with lint in your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the key using the help of a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow. Also, you can use a spare key to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that might be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide into place. Be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or key.

If all of the above methods fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder or it could be time to replace it altogether. If the problem is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it replaced. Luckily, these problems are typically very simple to repair.

Examine the Steering Wheel

A common issue that can stop the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel while they exit or get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It may also happen when an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.

This is a quick fix car ignition that doesn't require going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter gently until it moves into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

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

A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no more able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key.

If the new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this isn't working, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key has been damaged if it will not engage in the ignition. You can remove 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 can help.

It is 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 try putting it in the ignition and gently pulling it out. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, as they should. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

It could be that your key has worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your car ignition locked. In this case you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you're able to turn the car using an extra key and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. Try to open the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will release it to allow you to turn your car key. If this does not work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when you insert it. Most of the time, it gets filled with debris or is a result of regular wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.

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

Before you attempt this, make sure the gearbox of your car is set to neutral or park. Many newer cars have the ability to lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from turning into the ignition.

If you've tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it could be that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is important to follow the correct steps.

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

After removing the cover you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they are the same. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the old one.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle can start again.