Why is My car ignition locked (image source)?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition may be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer in it. This can be fixed by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder multiple times.

Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder are stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is turned on. This can be repaired by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car in gear.

If it is still not turning, the issue could be due to the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or an auto locksmith in your area.

The ignition cylinder could also be worn out. In time, both the van ignition repair and key can become worn out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, could solve this issue by allowing the wafers slide into the place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build over the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem you can try cleaning the keys with an old cloth or using a cleaner like Triflow. It is also recommended to use a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

When the key is in ignition you can tap it using a an hammer that is small. This will create a tiny vibration, which may cause enough vibration to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide into place. You must be cautious not to harm either the ignition cylinder, or the key.

If all of the above solutions are unsuccessful, it's time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it looked at. The key could be damaged within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it altogether. A locksmith can make an alternative key in the event that the issue is with the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause then you'll have to take your vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to repair.

Check the steering wheel

A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it when they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It can also happen when someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car.

Fortunately it's a simple fix that doesn't require a trip locksmiths or mechanics. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Neutral or Park. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake or turn on the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick look at the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower part of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the lock or pulling it back with moderate force. It is essential not to use too much pressure as it could damage the key, or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This may indicate that the original key has worn out and is no more able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case.

If the key doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it could help. Apply a small amount around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then gently tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this doesn't help, you may need to consult a specialist in your local car dealership. They'll be able provide you with a new key and replace the ignition cylinder if necessary.

Check the Key

If you're unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it's possible that something is wrong with your key. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this helps.

If the pins inside the lock do not move in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition once you have insert it. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, as they ought to. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could grease them with graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.

It is possible that your key has damaged or worn out and isn't able to work with the pins within the ignition cylinder. This may cause the ignition cylinder to not turn and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you'll need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.

If you are able to turn your vehicle with a spare key and you've eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery It could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to loosen the lock by using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently will often free it and allow you to turn your key and start your car ignition lock. If this does nothing, you'll need to have your lock cylinder changed by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key is inserted and slides out of position when it is inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or just wear and wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.

You can also use a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.

It is crucial to confirm whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. A lot of newer vehicles come with a system which locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned.

If you have done all of the above and still can't get your key to turn, it is likely that the housing of your ignition lock repair cylinder is in need of replacement. It is important to note that different vehicles have different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this means removal of the plastic cover which covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then loosen any fasteners holding it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder replacement near me cylinder from the steering column. Then, you will need to compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they're identical. After this step is completed, the new ignition cylinder is able to be installed in the same manner that the old 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 contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car can start again.