The Most Hilarious Complaints We've Seen About Car Ignition Lock
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are a variety of reasons your ignition in your car 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 multiple times.
Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
If the car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, it might be an issue with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be fixed by moving the shifter up or down to put the car in the correct gear.
If it's still not turning, the problem may be with the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix these issues.
The ignition cylinder could also wear out. Over time both the ignition and key may wear out, making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant can solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into place.
Lint from your pocket and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build up on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To resolve this issue you can try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or a cleaner such as Triflow. Also, you can utilize a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.
While the key is in the ignition you can tap it using a an hammer that is small. This will cause a slight 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 very careful not to damage the ignition key or cylinder.
If all of the above options are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key is damaged in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the entire thing. If ignition barrel replacement near me is with the key the locksmith can create a new key for you. If the cylinder for the ignition is the cause, you will need to take the car to a repair shop for it to be repaired. Luckily, these problems are typically very simple to repair.
Check the steering wheel
A simple problem that can prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It could happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen if an individual in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.
Fortunately it's an easy fix and doesn't require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, check that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it changes into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.
If the wheel isn't locked, a quick look at the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling it back with moderate force. It is important not to use too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
Another option is to use an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key.
If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may help. Just apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then gently tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this doesn't work you, it's possible to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They'll be able provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder should it be necessary.
Check the Key
It is possible that your key is damaged if it does not turn on. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You may also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it aids.
It's possible that the internal lock pins aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key to test, try putting it in the ignition, then gently sliding it back out. 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 could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This should allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key and keep them from becoming stuck.
It could be that your key has worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder to stop to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. In this instance you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.
If you can turn your car with an extra key, and you have eliminated any problems with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will loosen it to allow you to turn your car key. If this is not working it is necessary to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or simply a result of regular wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.
You can also make use of a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
It is important to check whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many newer cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from turning into the ignition.
If you have tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.
This typically involves removing 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 unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in place.
After the cover has been removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one you have purchased with the original one to ensure that they're the same. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way that you did with the old one.
Sometimes, despite our efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will start again.