Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are several reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. The key could be dirty or have a broken wafer in it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.
The pins of the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
If the car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, it might be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. This can be fixed by moving the shifter up or down to get the car into the gear.
If the car is still unable to turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable or shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can fix these issues.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, the ignition and the key will wear out, causing 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.
Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can build up on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem try cleaning the key using a cloth or using a cleaner, like Triflow. You can also try a spare key in order to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.
You could also tap the key with a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that might be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition which will allow them to slide into place. Be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or key.
If all of the above solutions are unsuccessful, it's time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the whole thing. Locksmiths can make an alternate key if the issue is with the key. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle will need to be brought to a repair shop to have it repaired. These problems are usually easy to solve.
Check the steering wheel
A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to not turn. This occurs when the driver has a mistake and engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themselves against it with their hands. It could also happen if an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.
Luckily, this is an easy fix that does not require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, ensure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it changes into one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key.
If the wheel is not locked, a quick examination of the steering column will determine if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label can be found in the lower portion the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
Another option is using an additional key to determine whether it is able to disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key has damaged and no capable of engaging the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an appropriate replacement key.
If the new key still does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil could assist. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't help, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to give you a new key and replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary.
Check the Key
It is possible that your key has been damaged if it doesn't engage in the ignition. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it can help.
It is possible that the lock pins inside are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after having insert it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If not, you could lubricate the pins with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into position when you insert the key and stop them from becoming stuck.
It could be that your key has damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and prevent you from starting your car. In this instance you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service.
If you are able to turn your car on with a spare key, and you have ruled out any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try to unlock the lock with an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Gently tapping on the cylinder will usually free it which allows you to turn your key and start your car. 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 where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. It is often gunked up with debris or as a result of regular wear and wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move along.
You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it as you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you do this, make sure that the car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or park. This will stop the ignition key from being turned.
If you've done all of this and still can't get your key to turn, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally speaking, this involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that hold it in the position.
After the cover has been removed, you will need to remove the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you'll need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are the same. Once this step is complete, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.
It is possible that despite our best efforts, the ignition can be damaged and require to be replaced. G28 Car Keys is recommended that if this happens, you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and then install it properly so that your vehicle can begin again.