Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are a variety of reasons your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.
The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently with a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park neutral, or doesn't start when the key is switched on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch upwards or downwards to get the car in the correct gear.
If the car is still unable to turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable or the shifter on the transmission. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic or by an auto locksmith in your area.
It's also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time, both the ignition and key may 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.
Lint from your pocket and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the key using a cloth or using a cleaner, like Triflow. You can also test a spare key to determine if the problem is with the ignition or the key.
When the key is in the ignition you can tap it using a an hammer that is small. This can cause a slight vibration, which may be enough to loosen up the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide in the right position. Be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or the key.
If all of the above solutions fail, it's likely to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key might be broken inside the ignition cylinder or it could be time to replace it completely. If the issue is with the key the 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 have it repaired. These issues are generally simple to fix ignition switch.
Examine the Steering Wheel
A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen when an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It may also happen when an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they exit the car.
Luckily it's an easy fix that does not 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, push or pull the shifter slowly until it moves into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.
If the wheel isn't locked, a quick examination of the steering column should reveal if the key is connected to the lock cylinder. This is typically indicated by a small "Lock" label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is important not to apply too much force as it could damage the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
Another option is using a spare key to see if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no more able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an appropriate replacement key.
If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can aid. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.
Check the Key
If you are unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. You can get rid of any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.
It is possible that the internal lock pins aren't moving correctly when you insert the key. If you have a spare key to test, you can try placing it in the ignition and gently sliding it back out. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, as they ought to. If not, you can grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.
A more serious issue with your key may be that it has become damaged or worn and is unable to connect the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn 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 service.
If you can turn your car using an extra key, and you've ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be that the ignition cylinder has worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of an Hammer (not the head). Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it to allow you to turn the key of your car. If this does nothing then you'll need your lock cylinder changed by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and slides out of place when you insert it. It can get clogged up with debris, or just wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition.
You can also use the small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to loosen or reset pins that are not aligned. Be very cautious not to overdo this, or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.
Before you attempt this, make sure the gearbox of your car is set to neutral or park. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key replacement cost key from turning.
If you've tried all of these methods and your key doesn't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. It is important to know that different vehicles will require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally, this means removal of the plastic cover which is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in place.
Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they are identical. Following this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way that you did with the old one.
It is possible that even with our best efforts, an ignition could be damaged and need to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly, so that your car will be able to start up again.