11 Strategies To Refresh Your Car Ignition Lock

Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are several reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. The key might be dirty or have a broken wafer inside it. It is possible to fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

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

If the car ignition switch is still unable to turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable or the transmission shifter. A mechanic or a local auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.

It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time the ignition as well as the key can wear out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant like silicon lock grease could solve this issue, letting wafers slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tape that holds packages together can build up on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue try cleaning the key with the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. Also, you can utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition.

You can also tap the key with a small hammer, when it's in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. But, be very careful not to harm the ignition key or cylinder.

If all of the above solutions fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key is damaged inside the mobile ignition lock repair services or it may be time to replace the entire thing. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith can create a new one for you. If the problem is related to the Ignition Key repair cylinder, your car must be taken to a repair shop in order to have it repaired. Fortunately, these issues are usually very 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. This happens if the driver is unable to engage it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is typically caused by pulling on the wheel and securing themselves against it with their hands. It could also happen if an individual in the rear seat is unable to stop the vehicle and engages the brakes when they exit the vehicle.

Luckily it's a simple fix that doesn't require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to 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 isn't locked a quick look at the steering column will tell whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling the key or pulling it back with moderate force. It is important not to apply excessive force since this could cause damage to the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.

Another option is to use a spare key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and no longer able engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.

If the new key still won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil can help. Just apply a small amount of oil around the ignition and keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn't work, you may need to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a replacement key and can also replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

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

It is possible that the lock pins inside aren't working properly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key ignition replacement to test, you can try placing it in the ignition and gently removing it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving within. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This should help the pins slide into position when you insert the key and also prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key could be that it has worn or damaged, making it unable to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and stop you from starting your car. If this is the case, you will need to take your car to repair or locksmith ignition replacement cost shop for service.

If you're able to turn the car with a spare key, and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of an Hammer (not the head). Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will loosen it and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work will happen, you'll have to get the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is where your key slides in and out of place when you insert it. It could get blocked with debris, or simply wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use a small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Be careful not to overdo this or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, make sure that the gearbox of your car is either in park or neutral. A lot of newer cars come with a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in park or neutral that can stop the key from being turned into the ignition.

If you have tried all of these steps and your key doesn't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the van ignition repair cylinder.

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

Once the cover is removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you will need to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they are the same. Once this is done the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help select the best replacement and then install it properly so that your vehicle can begin again.