Why is My Car Key Ignition Problems Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. This can be fixed by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car into the correct gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or the shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily fix these issues.

The ignition cylinder may also wear out. In time both the ignition and key can wear out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, could aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can build up on the key, which prevents it from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner like Triflow, to solve this issue. You should also utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration that could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into place. However, you must be careful not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above works, you must consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. The key could be damaged in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be the time to replace it all. Locksmiths can make an alternative key if the issue is with the key. If the cylinder for the ignition lock repair is the issue then you'll need to take the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. Fortunately, these issues are typically very simple to fix.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. This happens if the driver has a mistake and engages it when they exit or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It could also happen if an individual in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they get out of the vehicle.

This is a simple fix ignition switch that doesn't involve an appointment with a locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter slowly until it shifts into one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should determine if the key is engaged with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower area of the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure since this can damage the key, or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is using an alternate key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. If this is the case then 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 might help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to get it working. If this doesn't help you, it's possible to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They'll be able provide you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn on the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this can help.

It's possible that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after you insert it. This should allow you to feel and hear if the internal lock pins move, as they ought to. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you can lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This should allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and also prevent them from becoming stuck.

A more serious problem with your key could be that it has damaged or worn and is unable to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your car. In this instance, you'll need to bring your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.

If you are able to turn your car with a spare key, and you have eliminated any problems with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has been worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of the Hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work will happen, you'll have to get your lock's cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key is inserted and removed when inserted. Often times, it gets covered in debris or as a result of regular wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.

You can also use a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the cylinder for ignition, in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure the gearbox of your car ignition key replacement is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars have an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral and prevent the key from being turned in the ignition.

If you have tried all of these steps but your key is still unable to turn, it could be that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to note that different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally speaking, this involves removal of the plastic cover which is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then loosen any fasteners that are holding it in place.

After removing the cover you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they are the same. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. It is recommended that if this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you choose the right replacement and install it correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.