How-To-Get-More-Value-From-Your-Car-Ignition-Lock-d
Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a security feature that stops you from starting your car unless you have the original key. It is triggered by using the steering wheel as a support when getting into or out of your car, or touching it while parked.
It can also be caused by theft or vandalism. If you're having trouble turning your key, a few easy fixes may aid:
The ignition switch
The ignition switch is a tiny part of your car, but it's vital to driving it. It's one of the first switches you turn on your car and is also the one that activates all the other systems in the car as well. If it fails to function it could be a major problem.
The main reason your car ignition switch might fail is due to wear and tear. This could happen over time, particularly when you have other items on your keychain that are weighing it down. You can avoid this by having a separate set of keys for your house and car, and also by decreasing the weight of your keychain. Another reason is mechanical issues. If the ignition cylinder gets misaligned, it can make it difficult to remove or insert your key. If this is the situation you'll have to replace it.
In addition to these mechanical issues the ignition switch could also be malfunctioning due to an electrical issue. There may be the smell of smoke or burning when you try to start your car. If this happens it is important to get it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Another reason why you may be unable to start your car is that the ignition switch is locked in the ON position. This is a safety feature that prevents someone from removing your car key and re-starting it. This typically means that you are applying too much pressure on the ignition switch, or that your key doesn't work properly.
In the latter case, you can lubricate the lock to see if it improves. This will help to remove any dirt particles that could be preventing the key from turning, so you can try again. You can also use silicone-based lubricant to prevent dirt from building up inside the lock. If you still have trouble, try wiggling the key and inserting it again.
The lock the cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder in a car is the mechanical part in which the key is inserted to start the vehicle. The pins in the cylinder can move up and down allowing the key to move in and out. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. As time passes, these tumblers can become worn out or even break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder could eventually fail and cause a dead car battery and other problems.
The most common type is the cylinder lock. The outer shell features a cylindrical hole that houses the plug. The shell that covers the outer is typically made of steel, whereas the plug is often made of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks have different pins that permit them to be locked or unlocked in various ways. Some have extra security measures like snap lines or other pins that guard against lock bumping and other kinds of pick-and-pick.
Although it is possible to finesse the cylinder of a lock that is difficult to work with graphite or WD-40, these solutions usually don't work for very long. The more reliable option is to get a new ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by taking the old one out of your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. A new cylinder will require new keys.
Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks which are more expensive to replace. It is important that the procedure to replace an ignition cylinder be performed by an authorized professional. This is because it involves removal of components that could affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
You'll need to unplug the negative battery cables before replacing the battery. This is necessary to prevent the airbag from accidentally being deployed. You'll also want to turn off the airbag system, when it's equipped with one. It is essential to follow all instructions from the factory for repairs. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder, you'll need to reset your anti-theft code. This will prevent your car being taken. It could require a specific tool.
The crucial
If you turn your key, but it won't start your car, this could be a sign that your ignition lock isn’t functioning properly. This is a small but vital component that ensures that only the correct key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a tiny mechanical component that is used in conjunction with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to start. As time passes the key could wear out or damage the wafer tumblers in the lock cylinder. This could cause it to be difficult to turn.
You can fix the ignition problem in your car by employing a few basic troubleshooting methods. First, check that your key is in the correct position in the shifter and that the indicator on the shifter is directed towards the P (Park) slot. If not, it may stop the car from starting. You may have to consult with your dealer to determine what's causing the problem.
You can also jiggle the ignition key, but be careful not to apply too much force or pressure. This can free up any slight destruction to the wafer tumblers that's stopping it from turning. If this isn't working, try applying lubricant to the lock cylinder using a silicone-based lubricant to get it moving again.
You can locate these kinds of lubricants at your local auto parts store, but you should make sure you use an excellent one that stops dirt from accumulating and causing problems in the future. If all else fails, you must remove the ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a fairly simple procedure that a majority of DIYers can follow with the assistance of online guides or an auto repair manual.
If you have been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state might require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to prevent drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube prior to they can begin their vehicle. The device is installed by an approved provider, such as Intoxalock or LifeSafer.
ignition lock repair
In many vehicles, the lock cylinder and ignition switch are connected with wires. When you insert the key into the ignition, current flows through these wires, triggering the electrical systems of your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't functioning or the switch is stuck on it could be because the wire has been cut off. If you cannot find the cause of the problem, you may need to get a new ignition switch or cylinder.
Interlocks for ignition devices
A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that needs to be installed in your vehicle in order to meet the law or a criminal obligation. Ignition interlocks are made to detect alcohol-related disorders by analyzing the breath of drivers before the vehicle's engine is able to start. If the IID determines that the driver's BAC is higher than the allowed limit the horn will sound and/or flash lights, so that the driver is able to pull over and repeat the test.
Ignition Interlocks are a great option for people suffering from an alcohol use disorder, as they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior starting the vehicle. They are small and discreet which means they can be easily hidden from sight to avoid drawing attention. The cost of the ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They aren't purchased for sale.
The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder work together to regulate all the electrical components in your car. If any of these components are damaged or worn out, the ignition will not start. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is important to get them fixed in the shortest time possible.
If you are unable to get your vehicle to start, try putting the key in Park or neutral, and then turning it. If this doesn't work, you may need to remove the airbag and then disconnect the battery to access your ignition switch. This is a fairly simple job that can be done with a steering-wheel puller or GM key removal tool that you can borrow through AutoZone's loan-a tool service for free.
