Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are a variety of reasons your ignition might be stuck. The key may be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. You can fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.
Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder are stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
If the 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 shifter switch for the transmission. You can fix it by moving the gear shifter up or downward to get the vehicle into the correct gear.
If it's still not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or a local automotive locksmith.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key will wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, could solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into place.
The key may become blocked with lint in your pockets and adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the key using the help of a cloth or a cleaner like Triflow. Also, you can use a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.
You could also tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that might be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition which will allow them to slide into place. You should be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or key.
If none of the above work, you should call a locksmith to check it out. It could be that the key is damaged in the ignition, or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the ignition cylinder is the problem then you'll have to take the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to fix.
Make sure you check the steering Wheel
A common issue that can stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It could happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel while holding it against their body. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.
Fortunately it's a simple fix that does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If car key ignition replacement near me 's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves 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, taking a look at the steering column will tell whether the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it back with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much pressure as it could damage the key or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
A spare key can also be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key has worn out and no capable of engaging the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key.
If the new key does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil can assist. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition, and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this doesn't work you, you might need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.
Check the Key
If you are unable get your key to turn the ignition, it is likely that there is something wrong with your key. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You could also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it helps.
It could be that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, you can try putting it in the ignition, then gently sliding it back out. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If not, you can lubricate the pins with powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.
A more serious problem with your key could be that it has damaged or worn and is unable to connect the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and stop you from starting your vehicle. In this instance, you'll need to bring your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.
If you can turn your car on with a spare key, and you have eliminated any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder has been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of an Hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it and allow you to turn your key and start your car. If this is not working, 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 into and out of place when you insert it. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or simply wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it as you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you try this, make sure the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the ignition key from being turned.
If you've tried all of the above 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 for replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is essential to follow the correct procedure.
This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you'll need 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. It is then important to check the new one you bought with the previous one to make sure they are an identical match. Following this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder in the same way as the previous one.
Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition can become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.