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Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. The key may be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder multiple times.

Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder have become stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there may be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter up or down to get the car in the correct gear.

If the car is still unable to turn, the issue could be with the neutral safety cable or transmission shifter. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or an auto locksmith in your area.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease could solve this issue, letting the wafers to slide into the proper position.

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Lint from your pocket and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to fix this problem. It is also recommended to use a spare key to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition.

While the key is in the ignition, you can tap it with a the hammer with a small amount. This can cause a small vibration that might cause enough friction to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide in place. However, you should be very careful not to scratch the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to contact a locksmith to test the issue. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be time to replace it completely. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. If the cylinder in the ignition is the issue then you'll have to bring the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be repaired. Fortunately, these issues are usually very easy to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. It can happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel and being able to hold it against their body. It can also happen if a passenger in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they exit the vehicle.

Fortunately it's a simple fix and does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick check of the steering column will determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label is typically found in the lower portion the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling it or pulling it back with moderate force. It is important to not use too much pressure as this could cause damage to the key, or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can be used to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is worn out and is no more able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key.

If the key doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it could aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit a specialist at your local auto dealer. They'll be able to provide you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder if necessary.

Check the Key

It is possible that your key is damaged if it does not turn in the ignition. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You could also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it can help.

If the pins in the lock do not move in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, try placing it into the ignition and gently removing it. This should let you feel and hear if the internal lock pins move, which they ought to. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key may be that it is damaged or worn which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to stop turning and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need to take your vehicle to a locksmith or repair shop for service.

If you are able to turn your car with a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to loosen the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Don't use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key slides in and out of place when inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or just wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.

You can also employ a small hammer and very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder, in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this, or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you try this, make sure the car's gearbox is in neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-ignition-lock-repair-near-me/ could prevent the ignition key from being turned.

If you've tried all of these methods but your key is still unable to turn, it's possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is crucial to follow the correct procedures.

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

After you have removed the cover, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one that you have purchased with the previous one to ensure that they're the same. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same manner as the previous one.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your car can be started again.