archerhood8

Why is My Car Ignition Locked? There are many reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. The key might be dirty or may have a damaged wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times. The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen them. Check the Battery The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is turned on. You can fix it by moving the gear shifter up or down to get the vehicle into the correct gear. If the car is still unable to turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable or transmission shifter. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix these problems. It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time both the ignition and key can wear out, making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant, can help solve this problem by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into place. The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tape that holds packages together can build over the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow, to solve this issue. You could also test a spare key to determine if the problem is with the ignition or the key. You can also tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition, allowing them to slide into position. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder or the key. If none of the suggestions above work, you should consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. It could be that the key is broken inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the whole thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the ignition cylinder is the issue then you'll have to take the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be repaired. These issues are generally simple to solve. Check the Steering Wheel A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. This can happen if the driver is unable to engage it while exiting or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by pulling on the wheel and securing themself against it with their hands. It can also happen when someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car. This is a straightforward fix that doesn't require going to the mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key. If the wheel isn't locked, an inspection of the steering column will reveal whether the key has been engaged with the lock. A small “Lock label can be 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 essential not to use too much pressure as this can damage the key or break a wafer in the lock cylinder. A spare key can also be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key. If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil could help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this does not work, you'll likely need to see a specialist at your local auto dealer. They can provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder if needed. Check the Key It is possible that your key may be damaged if it doesn't turn on. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You may also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it helps. It could be that the lock pins inside aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. You can test a spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after having put it in. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving inside. If not, you could lubricate the pins with powdered graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This should help the pins slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck. It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need take your car to a locksmith or repair shop for repair. If you can turn your vehicle 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. Try to open the lock using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Do not use the head. Gently tapping on the cylinder can often release it and allow 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 the place your key slides in and out of position when it is inserted. It can get clogged up with dust, or simply wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition. You can also use a small hammer and tap very gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset the pins that are not aligned. 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 in neutral or park. Many newer cars come with an electronic system that locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned. If you've done all of this and still can't get your key to rotate it is most likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct steps. Generally, this involves taking off the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then loosen any fasteners holding it in place. Once the cover has been removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then important to check the new one you bought with the previous one to ensure that they're the same. After this you can then install the new ignition cylinder the same manner that you did with the old one. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition may be damaged and require replacement. If lost ignition key happens, it's advised to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you determine the correct replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your vehicle can start again.