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Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why your car ignition may be locked. The key could be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder many times.

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

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, there may be a problem with the shifter switch for the transmission. This can be easily solved by moving the switch up or down to get the car into gear.

If it's not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic, or an auto locksmith in your area.

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. Over car ignition replacement , the ignition as well as the key will wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, can help solve this problem by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

The key can become clogged with lint in your pockets as well as adhesive from tape that is used to hold packages together. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow, to solve this problem. You may also try a spare key to determine if the issue is the key or ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer, while it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration, which could be enough to loosen up the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide into place. However, you must be very careful not to harm the key or the ignition cylinder.





If all of the above options fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the entire thing. Locksmiths can create an alternative key if the problem is the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it repaired. Fortunately, these issues are generally easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to stop turning. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it when they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by yanking on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It can also happen when a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.

This is a straightforward fix that doesn't require an appointment with a locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter slowly until it shifts into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will confirm that the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much pressure since this can damage the key or break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key has damaged and no more able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create a replacement key.

If the key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you will likely have to visit an expert at your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key has been damaged if it does not engage in the ignition. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it aids.

If the pins within the lock do not move properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, try placing it into the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins move inside. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key and keep them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it has become worn or damaged which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, which can prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need take your vehicle to repair or locksmith shop for service.

If you're able to turn the car with an extra key and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Try to open the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will release it to allow you to turn your car key. If this does nothing then you'll need your lock cylinder changed by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or just wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

You can also use a small hammer and tap very gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset the pins that are out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

It is essential to ensure whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. A majority of modern cars have a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned.

If you have tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is essential to follow the correct procedures.

Generally, this involves removal of the plastic cover which is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners holding it in place.

After you have removed the cover, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they are the same. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way as the old one.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can start again.