Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. The key could be dirty or may have a damaged wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.
Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder have become stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen the pins.
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. This can be fixed by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car into the correct gear.
If it is still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.
The ignition cylinder could also wear out. In time the ignition as well as the key can wear out and become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant can help solve this problem by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into place.
The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow to resolve this issue. Also, you can use a spare key to determine if the issue is related to the key or the ignition.
While lost ignition key is in the ignition you can tap it with an hammer that is small. This will create a tiny vibration, which may cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide in the right position. Be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder or the key.
If none of the suggestions above works, you must consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. The key could be damaged inside the ignition cylinder, or it might be the time to replace it all. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith can create a new one for you. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought to a repair shop to get it replaced. Fortunately, these issues are usually very easy to solve.
Check the steering wheel
A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while holding it against their body. It can also happen if an individual in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they get out of the vehicle.
Luckily it's an easy fix and doesn't require a trip a mechanic or a locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to 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 a quick look at the steering column will tell if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock' label is usually located in the lower area of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since it could damage the key, or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.
Another option is using an additional key to determine whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could mean that the original key is worn out and is no capable of engaging the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an alternative key.
If the key doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it might aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you may need to speak with a specialist at your local car dealership. They can provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder if needed.
Check the Key
It is possible that your key may be damaged if it doesn't turn in the ignition. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it aids.
It is possible 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 removing it. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins move inside. If not, apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.
A more serious problem with your key could be that it has damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this instance you'll have to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.
If you're able to turn your car on with a spare key, and you've ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock with an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Do not use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. 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 where your key slides in and out when it is inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with dust, or simply wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.
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, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch.
It is crucial to confirm that your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many modern cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from turning in the ignition.
If you've done all of this but can't get your key to turn, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.
This typically involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then remove any fasteners that hold it in place.
Once the cover is removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one that you have purchased with the original one to ensure that they're the same. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way that you did with the old one.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your car can restart.