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Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition may be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer in it. This can be corrected by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.

The pins on the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

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

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





It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time the ignition as well as the key can become worn out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers slide into place.

The filth from your pockets and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to fix this issue. You should also utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

While the key is in the ignition you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This can cause a small vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. However, you should be very careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder.

If none of the above work, you need to consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. It could be that the key is damaged in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the entire thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, your car must be taken into a repair shop to have it repaired. These issues are generally simple to repair.

Check the Steering Wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen if someone in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

This is a quick solution that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the shifter is either in Park or neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it moves into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, taking a look at the steering column will reveal if the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure, as this can damage the key, or even damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This may indicate that the original key is worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case.

If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can help. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition, and keyhole, then gently tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this does not work, you may need to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key may be damaged if it will not turn in the ignition. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this aids.

It is possible that the internal lock pins aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test the spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after you put it in. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If not, you can lubricate the pins with powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key, and also prevent them from getting stuck.

repair ignition lock cylinder with your key could be that it has become damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need take your car to a locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you're able to turn your car on with a spare key, and you have eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of an Hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will loosen it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work will happen, you'll have to get the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. Often times, it gets gunked up with debris or simply a result of regular wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also employ a small hammer and very gently tap the inside of the cylinder for ignition, to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, ensure that your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This could prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have tried all of these methods and your key doesn't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally speaking, this involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in place.

Once the cover has been removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they are the same. Once this is done, the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's advised to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly, so that your car will be able to start up again.