10 Tell-Tale Signs You Must See To Buy A Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. This can be corrected by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder multiple times.

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there may be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be repaired by moving the shifter up or down to put the car into gear.

If it is still not turning, the problem could be related to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition Lock Jammed as well as the key will wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers to slide into place.

The key can become clogged with lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow to resolve this issue. You may also try a spare key in order to determine if the problem is the ignition lock repair services or the key.

When the key is in ignition, you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This will cause a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers in the ignition which will allow them to slide in place. You must be cautious not to harm either the ignition cylinder or the key.

If none of the above work, you need to contact a locksmith to test it out. It could be that the key has been damaged inside the ignition or it may be time to replace the entire thing. A locksmith can make an alternate key if the problem is with the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the problem, you will need to take the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. 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 could happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It could also happen if a passenger in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they exit the vehicle.

Luckily it's a simple fix and does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it changes into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will tell whether the key is engaged with the lock. A small "Lock' label is usually found in the lower portion the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much force as this could damage the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use an additional key to determine if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the new key still won't engage, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can help. Apply a small amount around the ignition and keyhole, then gently tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this isn't working, you'll likely need to see an expert at your local auto dealership. They will be able to provide you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary.

Check the Key

It could be that your key is damaged if it does not turn in the ignition. Try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this helps.

It could be that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can put it into the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving inside. If not, grease the pins using powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into position when you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

It could be that your key ignition replacement has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to connect with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your car ignition barrel replacement near me. If this happens you'll need bring your car to an auto locksmith ignition replacement cost or repair shop for repair.

If you can turn your vehicle with a spare key, and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of an 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 doesn't work then you'll need your lock's cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and slides out of position when it is inserted. It is often filled with debris or as due to wear and wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move forward.

You can also use a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it, or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is essential to ensure that your car's gearbox is set to park or neutral prior to attempting this. Many newer cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from being turned into the ignition.

If you have done all of this but not able to get your key to turn it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

This usually involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and the ignition lock repair services assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, loosen 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 necessary to compare the new one that you purchased with the old one to ensure that they're the same. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you determine the correct replacement and then install it properly so that your car can restart.