The Most Significant Issue With Car Ignition Lock, And How You Can Fix It
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why your ignition may be stuck. The key may be dirty or may have a damaged wafer in it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.
Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning when the car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. This can be easily fixed by moving the shifter up or down to put the car into the gear.
If the car doesn't turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable or the shifter in the transmission. 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 may wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers slide into place.
The key can become clogged by 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. You can clean the keys using a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow to resolve this problem. You may also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the ignition or the key.
You can also tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition and allow them to slide into position. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder or key.
If all of the above methods are unsuccessful, it's time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it could be the time to replace the entire thing. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, your car is required to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it repaired. These issues are generally simple to solve.
Check the steering wheel
A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel while holding it against their body. It can also happen if an individual in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they exit the vehicle.
Fortunately, this is an easy fix and does not require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, ensure that the gear shift is in either Park or Neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it moves into one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick examination of the steering column will reveal if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is usually indicated by a small "Lock" label on the lower part of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the key or pulling on it with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much pressure since it could damage the key or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.
Another option is to use a spare key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. If this is the case, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design a replacement key.
If the key does not engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it could aid. Just apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and keyhole, then gently tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this does not work, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They'll be able give you a new key and replace the ignition cylinder if necessary.
Check the Key
If you are unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it's likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can remove any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it can help.
It is possible that the internal lock pins aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, you can try placing it in the ignition and gently pulling it out. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving within. If not, apply lubrication to the pins using powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.
ignition cylinder replacement near me is possible that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you'll need bring your car to repair or locksmith shop for repair.
If you can turn your car with a spare key and you have ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of an hammer (not the head). A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work then you'll need your lock's cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place your key slides in and out of position when it is inserted. Most of the time, it gets covered in debris or simply due to wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.
You can also use a small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to loosen or reset the pins that are not aligned. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you attempt this, make sure that the car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. Many newer cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from turning into the ignition.
If you have tried all of these steps and your key still won't 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 important to follow the correct procedures.
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 in its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that hold it in place.
After removing the cover you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to check the new one that you have purchased with the previous one to make sure they are a perfect match. After this step is completed the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.