Responsible For An Car Ignition Lock Budget? 12 Ways To Spend Your Money
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons your ignition could be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer in it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.
The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. G28 Car Keys can tap the cylinder gently with a small tack-hammer.
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 an issue with the shifter switch on the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter up or down to put the vehicle into the gear.
If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be with the neutral safety cable or the shifter on the transmission. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily fix these issues.
It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key may wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers to slide into place.
The key can become clogged with lint in your pockets as well as adhesive from tape that is used to secure packages. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow, to solve this issue. You could also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.
You could also tap the key using a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. However, you must be careful not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.
If all of the above options fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key could be damaged within the cylinder for ignition or it could be the time to replace it all. If the problem is with the key the locksmith can create a new key for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, the car must be taken to a repair shop to have it replaced. Luckily, these problems are usually very easy to fix.
Check the steering wheel
A simple issue that could prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It could also happen when a passenger in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they exit the vehicle.
This is a quick fix that doesn't require going to the locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure the shifter is either in Park or neutral. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.
If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should confirm that the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. This is usually indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply excessive force since this could cause damage to the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
Another option is to use a spare key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.
If the key doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it might help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to get it working. If this does not work, you may need to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They can supply you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.
Check the Key
If you are unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You can also try rubbing rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it can help.
It's possible that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, put it into the ignition and gently pulling it out. This should let you feel and hear if the internal lock pins move as they should. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and keep them from getting stuck.
A more serious problem with your key may be that it has damaged or worn out and is unable to connect the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case, you will need to take your car to a locksmith or repair shop for repair.
If you're able to turn your car using an extra key, and you have ruled out any issues with the battery or steering wheel it could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to loosen the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will loosen it to allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does not work, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and slides out of place when inserted. Most of the time, it gets filled with debris or simply due to wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.
You can also use the small hammer and tap very gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset the pins that are not aligned. Be careful not to overdo it or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.
It is crucial to confirm whether your car's transmission is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. Many newer cars have an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral and prevent the key from turning in the ignition.
If you have done all of the above and still cannot get your key to turn, it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder needs replacement. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the correct procedure.
Generally, this involves taking off the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners that hold it in the position.
Once the cover is removed, you will need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one you bought with the previous one to ensure that they are an identical match. After this step is completed, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.
It is possible that despite our best efforts, the ignition could be damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you determine the correct replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.