Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons your ignition could be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside. You can fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.
The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch up or down to put the car into gear.
If it's still not turning, the problem could be related to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or by a local locksmith for cars.
The ignition cylinder can also wear out. In time, both the ignition and key may wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, could aid in solving this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into place.
The key can become clogged with lint in your pockets and adhesive from tape used to hold packages together. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow to resolve this problem. It is also recommended to utilize a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the key 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 may be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition which will allow them to slide in place. You should be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder or the key.
If all of the above methods are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key might be broken inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be time to replace it completely. Locksmiths can create an alternative key in the event that the issue is the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the issue then you'll need to bring the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. Luckily, these problems are generally easy to repair.
Examine the Steering Wheel
A common issue that can prevent 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 enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It could also happen if someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.
This is a quick solution that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is in either Park or Neutral. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.
If the wheel isn't locked, a quick check of the steering column should confirm that the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label can be found in the lower portion the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the key or pulling on it with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much force as this could cause damage to the key or cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.
Another option is using an alternate key to see if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. If this is the case then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create a replacement key.
If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it might help. Just apply G28 Car Keys around the ignition and keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it begins to work. If this does not work you, it's possible to speak with a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.
Check the Key
If you're unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it's possible that there is a problem with your key. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it aids.
It is possible that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can try placing it into the ignition and gently removing it. This should allow you to be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move as they ought to. If not, lubricate the pins with powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.
A more serious problem with your key could be that it has become damaged or worn out, making it unable to connect the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This may cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens, you will need to bring your car to a locksmith or repair shop for assistance.
If you can 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 loosen the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this is not working then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place your key is inserted and slides out of place when inserted. Most of the time, it gets filled with debris or simply a result of regular wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, in an effort to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo this, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you do this, ensure that the car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. A lot of newer vehicles come with a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the ignition key from being turned.
If you have done all of the above and still can't get your key to rotate 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 will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then remove any fasteners that are holding it in place.
After removing the cover you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one you have purchased with the previous one to ensure that they're the same. After this step is completed, the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.
Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you determine the correct replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.