The No. One Question That Everyone Working In Car Ignition Lock Should Know How To Answer
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 damaged wafer inside. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.
The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly 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, it might be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter up or down to put the car into the correct gear.
If it's still not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or an auto locksmith in your area.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time both the ignition and key can become worn out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting wafers to slide into place.
The key can become clogged with lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape used to secure packages. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to resolve this issue. You may also try a spare key to determine if the issue is the key or ignition.
When the key is in the ignition you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This will create a slight vibration that might be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide in place. 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 have it looked at. It could be that the key is damaged in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the entire thing. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, the car is required to be brought to a repair shop in order to have it repaired. These issues are usually simple to repair.
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 get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking the wheel while resting it against their body. It could also happen if a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.
Fortunately it's a simple fix that doesn't require a trip locksmiths or mechanics. First, check that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter until it moves into one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.
If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is usually identified by a small "Lock" label on the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much force, as this could damage the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the case, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make a replacement key.
If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it could aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. 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're unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is 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 aids.
It's possible that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test a spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition once you have put it in. 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 purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and also prevent them from getting stuck.
A more serious issue with your key may be that it has damaged or worn and is unable to engage the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn, which will prevent you from starting your car. If this is the case, you will need to take your vehicle to a locksmith or repair shop for service.
If you are able to turn your car on with an extra key, and you have ruled out any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of a Hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will loosen it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this is not working it is necessary to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out when it is inserted. It is often filled with debris or as due to wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the cylinder for ignition, in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch.
Before van ignition repair try this, make sure the gearbox of your car is set to neutral or park. Many modern cars have the ability to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from being turned into the ignition.
If you have tried these steps but your key is still unable to turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct procedures.
This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in place.
After you have removed the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one that you have purchased with the original one to ensure that they're the same. Once this step is complete 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's advised to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car will be able to start up again.