Why is My car ignition locked (Highly recommended Reading)?

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. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder are stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is turned on. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to get the vehicle into the gear.

If the car still won't turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter on the transmission. This can be easily solved by a mechanic, or an auto locksmith in your area.

The ignition cylinder can also be worn out. Over time the ignition as well as the key can become worn out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers slide into place.

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the key using an old cloth or using a cleaner, like Triflow. You should also utilize a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the key or the ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer, while it's in the ignition. This will create a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide into place. But, be careful not to damage the key or the ignition cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you should contact a locksmith to test it out. The key may be damaged in the cylinder of ignition and key replacement, or it might be time to replace it altogether. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can make a new one for you. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, the car will need to be brought to a repair shop to get it replaced. These problems are usually easy to solve.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A simple problem that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen when an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel as they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by pulling the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It could also happen when someone in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they exit the vehicle.

Luckily, this is an easy fix and doesn't require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it isn't, simply push or pull the shifter gently until it changes into one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked taking a look at the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is important to not use too much pressure as it could damage the key, or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to disengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key has worn out and is no capable of engaging the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an alternative key.

If the key doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it may aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work you, you might need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn on the ignition, it's possible that something is wrong with your key. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You may also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it helps.

If the pins within the lock do not move properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key to test, try putting it in the ignition and gently pulling it out. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving inside. If not, grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place when you insert the key and stop them from becoming stuck.

It is possible that your key has worn out or damaged and is unable to engage with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn and stop you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you're able to turn the vehicle with an extra key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of an hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it and allow you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does nothing, you'll need to have your lock's cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. It is often filled with debris or is a result of regular wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also employ a small hammer and 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 cautious not to overdo it as you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure that the car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. Many newer cars come with a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition lock repair key ignition replacement from turning.

If you have done all of the above and still can't get your key to turn it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder is in need of replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in the position.

After removing the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then important to compare the new one that you have purchased with the original one to ensure that they're the same. After this step is completed the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you select the best replacement and then install it properly so that your vehicle can start again.