Twenty Myths About Car Ignition Lock: Busted
Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a safety feature that prevents you from starting your car unless have your original key. It is triggered by using the steering wheel to support you when getting into or out of your car or touching it while parked.
It could also be caused through vandalism or theft. If you're having difficulty turning your key, a few easy fixes may aid:
The ignition switch for the ignition
The ignition switch is a tiny part of your car, but it's vital to driving it. It's the first switches you turn on your car, and it activates almost all the other systems in the car too. If it's not working it could cause many issues.
Wear and tear is the main cause of a car ignition switch breaking. This is a possibility with time, especially if your keychain is weighed down by other items. You can prevent this from happening by using a separate keys for your car and house and by reducing the weight on your keys. Mechanical problems are another reason. If the ignition cylinder is disaligned, it could make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this is the situation you'll need to replace it.
The ignition switch may be malfunctioning due to an electrical issue. In this case you may smell smoke or a burning odor when you try to start your car. It's important that you replace it as soon as you can to avoid further damage.
Another reason you might 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 your car keys and re-starting it. This typically means that you are applying too much pressure on the ignition switch, or your key doesn't work properly.
You can try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if it aids. This will remove any dirt particles that could hinder the key from turning, and you can try again. You can also apply an lubricant made of silicone, which will help to stop dirt from building up within the lock. If you're still having issues trying to move your key and then inserting it again.
The lock the cylinder
A car's ignition lock cylinder is the part that mechanically controls in which the key is into the cylinder to start the vehicle. The cylinder has pins that move upwards and downwards to let the key in and turn. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers may be damaged or even break, preventing the key from turning. Eventually, the cylinder can fail completely, leading to a dead battery and other issues with your car's starting.
Cylinder locks are the most popular type of car lock. The outer shell features a cylindrical hole that houses the plug. The shell that covers the outer is typically made of steel, whereas the plug is typically made of brass or bronze. Cylinder locks can be found with a variety of pins, which permit them to lock or unlock in a variety of ways. Some cylinder locks have additional security measures such as a snap-line or additional pins to guard against bumping of the lock.
Although it is possible to finesse the cylinder of a lock that is difficult to work using graphite or WD-40 these methods aren't likely to work for long. It is best to replace the ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by removing the old lock out of your car, and then replacing it with a new one. A new cylinder will require new keys.
Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace an ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more expensive to replace. It is crucial that the process of replacing an ignition cylinder is performed by an authorized professional. This is because it involves removing components that could affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
In order to replace the battery for the replacement, you'll have to disconnect the battery cable that is negative. This is important to prevent the risk of an unintentional deployment of airbags. It is also recommended to turn off the airbag system, if it is equipped with one. It is important to follow all factory repair instructions. You'll have to reset the anti-theft codes following installation of the new ignition lock. This will prevent your car from being stolen, and it may require the use of a special tool.
The key
If your key is turning but does not start the vehicle it could be an indication that your ignition lock isn't working. This is a small but crucial component that makes sure that only the correct key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a small mechanical component that is used in conjunction with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to start. In time, the key may wear out or damage the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder. This can cause it to be difficult to turn.
While replacing your key is typically the best option however, you can also try some basic troubleshooting methods to resolve the ignition issue of your car at home. First, make sure your key is in the right position in the shifter, and that the indicator on the shifter is pointed towards the P (Park) slot. If not, it may prevent the vehicle from starting. It is possible to consult with your dealer to determine what's the reason for the issue.
You can also turn the ignition key, but don't apply too much force or pressure. This will help to take care of any small damage to the tumblings of the wafer which hinders it from turning. If this doesn't work, you can try lubricating the lock cylinder with an lubricant made of silicone to get it moving again.
These lubricants can be found at the local auto parts shop. However, you must make sure to use a premium lubricant to stop dirt from accumulating. This could cause issues down the road. If all else fails, you must take off the ignition and replace it with a new one. This is an easy process that DIYers can do with the help of online guides or manuals for auto repair.
If you have been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to prevent drunken driving by forcing drivers to breathe into a tube prior to getting their car started. The device must be installed only by a provider that is approved, like Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many vehicles, the lock cylinder and ignition switch are connected by wires. When does a new ignition switch require a new key insert the key into the ignition, current runs through these wires, triggering all electrical systems in your vehicle. If the electrical system is not functioning or the switch is stuck in the on position, it may be due to a wire that is disconnected. If you can't determine the cause of the problem it is possible to replace the ignition switch or cylinder.
Interlocks for ignition devices
A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that must be installed in your vehicle to satisfy the law or a criminal requirement. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath before the engine of the vehicle is started. If the IID determines that the driver's alcohol level is higher than the limit allowed the warning horn will sound and the lights will flash to indicate that the vehicle is stopped and the driver may take a second test.
Ignition interlocks can be a useful tool for people with alcohol use disorders, as they require that the person blow into a mouthpiece prior to beginning the car. They are small and discreet, so they can be concealed away from the view of others to avoid attracting attention. The cost of the ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They are not purchased in bulk.
The ignition switch and ignition cylinder work together to control all of the electrical parts in your vehicle. If any of these parts are damaged or worn out, the ignition will not start. If you're experiencing any of these problems it is crucial to get them fixed as soon as you can.
If you can't get your car to start, try putting the key in neutral or Park and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you might need to take off the airbag and then disconnect the battery to gain access to your ignition switch. This is typically a simple job, but it might require an instrument to pull the steering wheel or a GM key removal kit, both of which are available for rental through AutoZone's loan-a tool program for no cost.