Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside. This can be corrected by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder multiple 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

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is turned on. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the vehicle into gear.

If the car still won't turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter on the transmission. They can be fixed by a mechanic, or a local locksmith for cars.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key may wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, can aid in solving this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build up on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition and key replacement. You can clean the keys with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to resolve this problem. You could also try a spare key to determine if the issue is with the van ignition repair or the key.

When the key is in the ignition you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This can cause a small vibration that might cause enough friction to loosen the wafers inside the ignition which will allow them to slide into place. However, you should be careful not to damage the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above works, you must consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can create an alternative key if the problem is with the key. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle will need to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it replaced. These issues are generally simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A simple problem that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It could happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It could also happen if an individual in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.

Fortunately it's a simple fix and doesn't require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check 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. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick look at the steering column will tell whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure since this can damage the key, or even break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using an alternate key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and no longer able engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the new key still does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work, you'll probably need to visit an expert at your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a replacement key and can also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it is likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it helps.

It is possible that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test the spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after you put it in. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, as they should. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you can grease them with graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into position when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key could be that it is worn or damaged which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you'll have to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you can turn your car using a spare key, and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver, or the handle of the Hammer (not the head). A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it and allow you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need your lock cylinder changed by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when inserted. It could get blocked with dust, or simply wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move forward.

You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, in an effort to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, make sure that the car ignition switch's gearbox is in neutral or park. Many newer cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you've tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to know that different vehicles require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

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

Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then important to check the new one you bought with the previous one to make sure they're the same. After this you can then install the new ignition cylinder the same way that you did with the old one.

Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition will be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is recommended to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle can start again.