Twenty Myths About Car Ignition Lock: Busted
Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a security feature that prevents you from getting your car started unless you have the original key. It gets triggered when you use the wheel to provide support when you get in or out of your vehicle or even touch it while parked.
It can also be triggered through vandalism or theft. You can fix your key if it is having trouble turning it.
The ignition switch for the ignition
The ignition switch is an essential component of your vehicle. It's one of the first things that you switch on when you start your car, and it also activates many other systems. So when it doesn't work, it can be a huge issue.
The primary reason why the ignition switch on your car can fail is due to wear and wear and tear. This is a possibility with time, particularly if your keychain is weighed down by additional items. It is possible to 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. It may be difficult to remove or insert the key if the cylinder for ignition is not aligned correctly. If this happens you'll need to replace it.
In addition to these mechanical problems, your ignition switch may also be failing because of an electrical issue. In this case, you might notice smoke or a burning smell when you attempt to start your vehicle. If you do, it's important to have it repaired in the earliest time possible to avoid further damage.
Another reason why you may be unable to start your car is due to the ignition switch is locked in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents anyone from taking out your key and re-starting the engine. Typically, this means you have too high pressure on the ignition switch or the key isn't functioning correctly.
Try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if that helps. This will release any dirt particles that may hinder the key from turning, so you can try it again. You can also use a silicone-based lubricant to keep dirt from accumulating inside the lock. If you're still having issues try wiggle the key and inserting it once more.
The lock the cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder in a car is the mechanical component where the key gets inserted to start the vehicle. The cylinder is equipped with pins that move up and down to let the key in and turn. The pins are held in place by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers can fail or break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder may eventually fail completely, causing dead batteries and other problems in the vehicle's starting.
The most common type is the cylindrical 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 constructed of steel. The plug is often bronze or brass. Cylinder locks come with different pins that allow them to be locked or unlocked in a variety of ways. Certain models come with additional security measures such as snap lines or other pins that guard against bumping into locks and other forms of lock picking.
While it is possible to finesse a cylinder that is difficult to lock with graphite or WD-40, these methods aren't likely to work for long. It is better to replace the ignition lock cylinder. This can be accomplished by taking the old one from your vehicle, and then replacing it with a new one. Keys will need to be replaced for a new cylinder.
Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks, which are more expensive to replace. The procedure for replacing the ignition cylinder must be carried out by a certified professional. This is because the process involves removing components that could interfere with supplemental restraint systems (airbags).
You'll need to disconnect negative battery cables before you replace the battery. This is important to prevent an accidental airbag deployment. It is also important to disable the airbag system if your vehicle has one. It is essential to follow all factory repair instructions. You'll need reset the anti-theft codes after installing the new ignition lock. This will stop your car from being taken. It may require a special tool.
The crucial
If you turn your ignition key but it won't start your car, this could be a sign that your ignition lock isn’t working. This is a tiny but vital component that ensures only the right key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a tiny mechanical component that is used in conjunction with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to start. As time passes the key could damage or wear out the wafer tumblers inside the lock cylinder, making it hard to turn.
While replacing your key is typically the best option but you can also try some basic troubleshooting to help solve the ignition issue in your car at home. Make sure that your key is in the proper position and that the indicator is pointed to the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If it's not, that could cause the engine to stop beginning, and a quick check with your dealer might be required to determine what's causing the issue.
You can also play with the ignition key, but be careful not to apply too much force or pressure. This will remove any small damage to the wafer tumblings that hinders it from turning. If this doesn't help you, try lubricating the wafer with an lubricant made of silicone.
You can find these types of fluids at the local auto parts store, but also be sure to use the best one that will stop dirt from building up and causing further problems in the future. If nothing else works, you'll need to remove the ignition cylinder and replace it with a new one. This is a fairly simple process that most DIYers can follow with the help of online guides or an auto repair manual.
If you've been recently arrested for a DUI or DWI, your state might require that you install an ignition interlock device (IID). These devices are designed to prevent drunken driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube prior getting their car started. The device is installed only by a service provider that is approved, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many automobiles the ignition switch as well as lock cylinder are connected with wires. When you insert the key into the ignition, current flows through these wires to activate the electrical systems of your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't functioning or the switch is stuck on, it could be that a wire has been disconnected. If you can't determine the root of the issue you might need to purchase a new ignition switch or cylinder.
Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a vehicle breathalyzer that has to be installed in your car as part of a criminal sanction or a legal obligation. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use disorder in drivers by measuring their breath prior to when the engine of the vehicle is started. If the IID determines that the driver's alcohol consumption is greater than the limit allowed the warning horn will sound and the lights will flash so that the vehicle can be stopped and the driver is able to test again.
ignition key replacement are an excellent option for those suffering from alcohol-related disorders, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small and subtle, so they can be concealed away from view to avoid drawing attention. The cost of the ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They are not purchased in bulk.
The ignition switch and ignition cylinder control all electrical components in your vehicle. The ignition won't work in the event that one of these components are damaged or worn. If you're experiencing one of these issues, it's important to fix them in the shortest time possible.
If you are unable to get your vehicle to start, try putting the key in Park or neutral and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you may need to unplug the battery and take out the airbag to get access to the ignition switch. This is a simple job that can be accomplished using a steering-wheel puller, or GM key removal tool, which you can rent through AutoZone's loan-a tool service for free.