Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. The key could be dirty or have a broken wafer in it. This can be corrected by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times.
The pins of the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen them.
Check the Battery
If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there might be a problem with the transmission shifter switch. This can be repaired by moving the shifter up or down to put the car into the correct gear.
If it is still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or by a local locksmith for cars.
The ignition cylinder can also be worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, can help solve this problem by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.
The key may become blocked with lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape used to hold packages together. ignition key won't turn prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue, you can try cleaning the key with the help of a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow. You may also try a spare key to determine if the problem is with the ignition or the key.
You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration, which could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide into the right position. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder or key.
If none of the suggestions above work, you need to call a locksmith to check it out. The key could be damaged in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be the time to replace it all. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can create a new key for you. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car is required to be brought into a repair shop to have it repaired. These problems are usually easy to fix.
Check the steering wheel
A common issue that can prevent 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 and securing themself against it using their hands. It could also happen if a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.
Luckily, this is an easy fix that does not require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it shifts 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, taking a look at the steering column will tell whether the key is engaged with the lock. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it back with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply excessive force since this could damage the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.
A spare key can be used to deactivate the lock. This may indicate that the original key has worn out and no capable of engaging the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the case then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make a replacement key.
If the new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can assist. Apply a small amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to work. If this doesn't help you, you might need to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder should it be necessary.
Check the Key
If you're unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.
If the pins within the lock aren't moving in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key to test, you can try placing it in the ignition and gently sliding it back out. This should allow you to feel and hear if the internal lock pins move, as they should. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place as you insert the key, and will prevent them from becoming stuck.
It is possible that your key has damaged or worn out and is unable to engage with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your car. If this is the case you'll need take your vehicle to repair or locksmith shop for repair.
If you're able to turn the car with a spare key, and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it and allow you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place your key slides in and out of place when inserted. Often times, it gets filled with debris or is a result of regular 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 very gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset pins that are out of alignment. 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 gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. Many modern cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral and prevent the key from being turned into the ignition.
If you've done all of this and still cannot get your key to rotate, it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct procedures.
Generally, this involves removing the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then remove any fasteners holding it in place.
After removing the cover you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one that you have purchased with the old one to make sure they're the same. After this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the previous one.
It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition could be damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you determine the correct replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can start again.