12 Companies Are Leading The Way In Car Ignition Lock
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why your ignition could be stuck. The key might be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. This can be repaired by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder multiple times.
The pins of the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.
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 switched on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch upwards or downwards to get the car into the correct gear.
If it is still not turning, the problem could be due to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily fix these problems.
The ignition cylinder may also wear out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key will wear out, causing them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting the wafers to slide into the proper position.
The key could get clogged with lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to keep packages in place. 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. Also, you can use a spare key to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.
While the key is in ignition you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This will cause a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition which will allow them to slide into place. However, you must be careful not to damage the key or the ignition cylinder.
If all of the above solutions fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key might be broken inside the ignition cylinder or it could be the time to replace it all. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith can create a new key for you. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, the vehicle must be taken to a repair shop in order to get it replaced. These issues are usually simple to solve.
Make sure you check the steering Wheel
A simple problem that can hinder the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking the wheel and resting it against their body. It may also happen when an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.
This is a quick fix that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Park or neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it moves into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.
If the wheel isn't locked a quick look at the steering column will tell if the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it back with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much pressure as this could cause damage to the key, or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to deactivate the lock. This may indicate that the original key has worn out and is no capable of engaging the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.
If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it may help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this doesn't help you, it's possible to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder if necessary.
Check the Key
If you are unable get your key to turn the ignition, it's possible that there is a problem with your key. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this helps.
It could be that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently pulling it out of the ignition after you insert it. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving inside. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you can grease them with graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be put 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 issue with your key could be that it is worn or damaged and is unable to connect the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your car. In this case you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.
If you're able to turn your car 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 using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of the Hammer (not the head). Often, tapping gently on the cylinder can free it and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this doesn't work, you'll need to have your lock's cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when you insert it. car ignition switch is often covered in debris or simply the result of 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 make use of a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the cylinder for ignition, to try to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
It is essential to ensure that your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. A lot of newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park, which can prevent the key from being turned into the ignition.
If you have tried all of these methods but your key is still unable to turn, it is possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the correct steps.
This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then remove 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 will need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to ensure that they are identical. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.
It is possible that even with our best efforts, the ignition could be damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you choose the right replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will begin again.