12 Companies Leading The Way In Car Ignition Lock
Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
An ignition lock is a security measure that stops your car from starting until you have the original key. It is triggered by using the steering wheel as a support when getting into or out of your car or touching it while you are parked.
It could also be caused by vandalism or theft. You can fix your key if it is having trouble turning it.
The ignition switch is the ignition
The ignition switch is a tiny part of your car that is essential for driving it. It's one of the first things you turn on when you start your vehicle, and it also activates most other systems. If it's not working it could be a huge issue.
The primary reason why the ignition switch in your car could fail is due to wear and tear. This is a possibility with time, particularly when your keychain is weighted down by other items. You can avoid this by using a separate keys for your house and car, and by reducing weight on your keys. The other cause is mechanical issues. If the ignition cylinder is misaligned, it can make it difficult to remove or insert your key. If this happens you'll need it replaced.
In addition to these mechanical issues the ignition switch could also be failing because of an electrical issue. There may be the smell of smoke or burning when you attempt to start your vehicle. It is crucial to replace it as soon as you can to prevent any further damage.
Another reason you might not be able to start your car is that the ignition switch is not in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents someone from taking the car key and starting it. This typically means that you are applying too much pressure on the ignition switch, or your key doesn't work properly.
In the latter case, you can lubricate the lock to see if it helps. This will remove any dirt particles that could hinder the key from turning, so you can try it again. You can also use a silicone-based lubricant to prevent dirt from accumulating in the lock. If you're still having issues trying to move the key and inserting it once more.
The lock is a cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder of a car is the mechanical component where the key gets in to start the car. The pins in the cylinder move up and down, permitting the key to move in and out. Also, it has wafer tumblers that hold the pins in the right position. As time passes the tumblers could fail or break and stop the key from turning. The cylinder could eventually fail, resulting in a dead battery in your car and other issues.
Cylinder locks are the most common type of car lock. They consist of an outer shell and an opening that is cylindrical, inside which the plug is housed. The outer shell of a cylinder lock is generally made of steel. The plug is often bronze or brass. Cylinder locks have different pins that permit them to be locked or unlocked in various ways. Certain cylinder locks include additional security measures such as snap-line pins or additional pins to guard against bumping the lock.
Although it is possible to finesse the cylinder of a lock that is difficult to work using graphite or WD-40 these solutions typically don't last for very long. A more reliable solution is to purchase a new ignition lock cylinder. You can do this by taking the old cylinder of your ignition lock from your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. A new cylinder will require new keys.
The cost of replacing an ignition lock cylinder typically less than $300 for standard systems. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks that are more expensive to replace. The procedure for replacing the ignition cylinder should always be performed by a certified professional. This is due to removal of components that could interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
It is necessary to disconnect the negative battery cable before you replace the battery. This is necessary to prevent the possibility of an accident involving airbag deployment. Also, you should disable the airbag system in the event that it has one. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. You'll need to reset the anti-theft codes after installing the new ignition lock. This will stop your car from being stolen. It may require a special tool.
The most important
If you turn your ignition key but it won't start your car, this could be an indication that your ignition lock isn't functioning properly. This small but vital part ensures that only the right key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a part made of metal that is connected to an electrical component to "read" anti-theft code to allow your vehicle to start. In time the key may cause damage or wear on the wafer tumblers inside the lock cylinder, which makes it difficult to turn.
While replacing your key is typically the best solution but you can also try some basic troubleshooting techniques to resolve the ignition issue of your car at home. Check that your key is in its correct position and that the indicator is pointing towards the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it may stop the car from starting. It is possible to consult with your dealer to determine what is the cause of the issue.
You can also play with the ignition key, but don't apply too much pressure or force. This will help to take care of any small damage to the tumblings of the wafer that prevents it from rotating. If this doesn't work, you can try applying lubricant to the lock cylinder using an oil based on silicone to get it moving again.
These lubricants can be purchased at your local auto parts store. However, you must use a high-quality lubricant to stop dirt from building up. G28 will cause more problems down the road. If nothing else works then you'll have to take out the ignition cylinder and replace it with a brand new one. This is an easy process that DIYers can do with the help of online guides or auto repair manuals.
If you've been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are intended to stop drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube prior to getting their car started. The device should be installed only by a service provider that is that is approved, like Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many automobiles the ignition switch as well as lock cylinder are connected via wires. When you put your key in the ignition the current flows through these wires and triggers all of the electrical systems inside your vehicle. If the electrical system isn't working or the switch is stuck in the on position, it may be due to a wire that is disconnected. If you are unable to identify the issue, it could be necessary to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder.
Interlocks for ignition devices
A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that has to be fitted into your vehicle to comply with a legal or criminal obligation. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath prior to when the engine of the vehicle can be started. If the IID detects that the driver's BAC exceeds the allowed limit, the horn will sound and/or lights flash, so that the driver has the option of pulling over and repeat the test.
Ignition interlocks are a great tool for people with drinking disorders because they require that the user blow into a mouthpiece prior beginning the car. They are small, discreet and can be hidden to avoid attracting attention. The cost of ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They are not purchased outright.
The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder work together to regulate all of the electrical parts in your vehicle. The ignition will not work if any of these components is damaged or worn. If you're experiencing one of these issues, it's important to have them fixed as soon as possible.
If you can't get your vehicle to start, try placing the key in Park or neutral, and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you might need to take off the airbag and disconnect the battery to get access to the ignition switch. This is typically a simple task, but it may require a steering wheel puller or a GM key removal kit, both of which can be rented from AutoZone's loan-a-tool service for free.