Do Not Believe In These "Trends" About Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your lost ignition key could be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder multiple times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there may be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to get the vehicle into the gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be related to the neutral safety cable or transmission shifter. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or a local locksmith for cars.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key can become worn out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting the wafers to slide into place.

The key may become blocked with lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow, to solve this problem. Also, you can utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is related to 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, which may be enough to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide in place. However, you should be cautious not to harm the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the above works, you must consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. The key may be damaged in the cylinder of ignition lock repair near me, or it might be time to replace it completely. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith can create a new one for you. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, the car ignition replacement near me must be taken to a repair shop in order to get it replaced. These issues are generally simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A simple problem that can stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel while they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It can also happen when an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car.

This is a quick fix that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. 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 inspection of the steering column should confirm that the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is typically indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower part of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the lock 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.

Another option is using an alternate key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers in 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 does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil could help. Just apply a small amount around the ignition, and keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to engage. If this isn't working, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local auto dealership. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

It could be that your key has been damaged if it does not turn in the ignition. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You could also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.

It's possible that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test a spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition once you have put it in. This should allow you to be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, as they should. If not, you can lubricate the pins with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key and also prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key may be that it is damaged or worn which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your car. In this case, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you are able to turn your vehicle with an extra key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder will usually free it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

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

You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it as you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure that the car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. A majority of modern cars have an electronic system that locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you've tried all of this but can't get your key to turn it is most likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then remove any fasteners holding it in place.

After the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to make sure that they're identical. Once this is done, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same way that the previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition cylinder lock repair will become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car can start again.