Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. The key might be dirty or have a broken wafer in it. This can be corrected by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to get the car into the correct gear.

If the car still won't turn, the issue could be related to the neutral safety cable or the shifter in the transmission. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or by a local automotive locksmith.

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. In time the ignition as well as the key may wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers slide into place.

The key could get clogged with lint in your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to hold packages together. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow to fix this problem. It is also recommended to make use of a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.

While the key is in the ignition, you can tap it with an hammer that is small. This will cause a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into position. However, you must be cautious not to scratch 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 might be broken inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be time to replace it completely. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the ignition cylinder is the issue then you'll need to take the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking the wheel while resting it against their body. It could also happen when a passenger in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they get out of the vehicle.

This is a straightforward fix that doesn't involve going to the locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter slowly until it moves into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or turn on the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will show whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition lock repair services circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling the key or pulling it back with moderate force. It is essential 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 to use an additional key to determine whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and is no longer able to engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may help. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this isn't working, you'll likely need to see an expert at your local auto dealership. They can provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

It could be that your key is damaged if it doesn't turn on. You can try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it helps.

It could be that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, try putting it in the ignition and gently removing it. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins move inside. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and also prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key could be that it is damaged or worn which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder to stop to turn, preventing you from starting your car ignition locked. In this situation, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you're able to turn your car with a spare key and you've ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of an Hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder can often release it and allow you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work will happen, you'll have to get your lock's cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. Often times, it gets covered in debris or is due to wear and wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

You can also use 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, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, ensure that your car's gearbox is in neutral or park. A lot of newer cars come with an option to 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 tried all of these methods but your key is still unable to turn, it is possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

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

Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to check the new one you bought with the previous one to ensure that they are an identical match. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same way that you did with the old one.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, the ignition could be damaged and require to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you select the best replacement and install it correctly so that your vehicle can start again.

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