Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are a variety of reasons your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.
The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently with a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter up or down to put the vehicle into the gear.
If the car still won't turn, the problem could be due to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter on the transmission. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix these problems.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key can become worn out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, can solve this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.
The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build on the key, which prevents it from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the keys using a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow to resolve this issue. You should also make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition.
While the key is in the ignition, you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. This will create a tiny vibration that could cause enough vibration to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide into the right position. Be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or key.
If none of the above work, you need to contact a locksmith to test the issue. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder or it could be time to replace it completely. If the problem is with the key the locksmith can create a new key for you. If the ignition cylinder is the problem, you will need to bring the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to solve.
Check the steering wheel
A simple problem that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is typically caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themselves against it with their hands. It can also happen if someone in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.
This is a quick fix that doesn't require a trip to the locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.
If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will reveal whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower portion of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force as it could damage the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
Another thing to try is using a spare key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is worn out and no longer able to 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 key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it might help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work, you'll likely have to visit an expert at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able to provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.
Check the Key
It is possible that your key is damaged if it doesn't turn on. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc.). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it can help.
If the pins within the lock do not move properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key to test, put 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 not, you can lubricate the pins with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and also prevent them from getting stuck.
A more serious issue with your key could be that it is damaged or worn out and is unable to engage the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn, which will prevent you from starting your car. In this case, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.
If you are able to turn your vehicle 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. You can try to unlock the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Do not use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it and allow you to turn your car key. If this is not working then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place where your key is inserted and removed when inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or simply wear and wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also use a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder in an effort to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you try this, make sure the car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. A lot of newer vehicles come with an option to lock the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This could prevent the ignition key from turning.
If you've tried all of this and still not able to get your key to turn it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.
This typically 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 the lowest setting and then unscrew 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 necessary to compare the new one that you purchased with the previous one to ensure that they are a perfect match. After this step is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same manner that you did with the old one.
Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition can become damaged and require replacement. ignition and key replacement is recommended that when this happens you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you determine the correct replacement and then install it properly so that your car can begin again.