Why is My car ignition locked (sneak a peek here)?
There are many reasons why your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside. This can be repaired by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times.
The pins of the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when you insert the key into the ignition, it might be a problem with the shifter switch for the transmission. This can be fixed by moving the shifter up or down to get the car into the correct gear.
If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable, or the transmission shifter. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can fix these issues.
It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant can help solve this problem by allowing the wafers to slide into place.
The key can become clogged with lint in your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to secure packages. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue you can try cleaning the key using an old cloth or using a cleaner, like Triflow. Also, you can make use of a spare key to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.
You could also tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into place. You should be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder, or the key.
If none of the above works, you must call a locksmith to check the issue. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it could be the time to replace the whole thing. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can create a new one for you. If the ignition cylinder is the issue then you'll have to take the car to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. Luckily, these issues are usually very easy to solve.
Check the steering wheel
A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This happens if the driver is unable to engage it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it with their hands. It can also happen if someone in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle.
Fortunately it's an easy fix that doesn't require a trip locksmiths or mechanics. First, make sure that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should reveal if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower area of the ignition lock repair near me circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply excessive force since this could damage the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an appropriate replacement key.
If the key does not engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it might help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to get it working. If this does not work, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local auto dealership. They can supply you with a new key and replace the ignition lock repair 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 could also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it helps.
If the pins in the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after you insert it. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, which they should. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.
A more serious problem is that it has damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This may cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and stop you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance.
If you're able to turn your car on with a spare key, and you have ruled out any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver or handle of an hammer (not the head). A gentle tap on the cylinder will usually free it and allow you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place your key slides into and out of place when inserted. Often times, it gets covered in debris or simply due to wear and wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.
You can also use the small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Again, be very careful not to overdo this, or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.
It is essential to ensure that your car ignition switch's gearbox is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. Many modern cars have an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from turning in the ignition.
If you have tried all of these steps but your key is still unable to turn, it's possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct steps.
This typically involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners holding it in the position.
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 that you bought with the old one to make sure they're the same. After this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same way as the old one.
It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition can be damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car key ignition replacement near me can be started again.