16 Facebook Pages You Must Follow For Car Ignition Lock Marketers
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why your ignition might be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be fixed by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.
The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can use a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins.
Check the Battery
The shifter switch in the transmission could be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. This can be easily fixed by moving the shifter up or down to get the car in the correct gear.
If the car doesn't turn, the problem could be due to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter in the transmission. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic, or a local automotive locksmith.
The ignition cylinder may also be worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key will wear out, which causes them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers to slide into place.
The key may become blocked with lint from your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to secure packages. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow to fix this issue. It is also recommended to use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition.
While the key is in ignition you can tap it using a an hammer that is small. This will create a tiny vibration that could cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into the right position. Be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder or the key.
If none of the suggestions above works, you must consult a locksmith for help in figuring it out. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it completely. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith can create a new one for you. If the cylinder for the ignition is the issue then you'll need to bring the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These issues are usually simple to solve.
Examine the Steering Wheel
A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to stop turning. It could happen if a driver accidentally engages the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they get out of the car.
Fortunately, this is an easy fix that does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not, push or pull the shifter gently until it shifts into one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.
If click for info 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 part of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling the key or pulling it back with moderate force. It is essential not to apply excessive force since it could damage the key or even break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.
Another option is using an additional key to determine whether it is able to disengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key is worn out and no capable of engaging the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the case the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key.
If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can assist. Apply a small amount penetrating oil around the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't help, you may need to consult a specialist in your local dealership for cars. They can provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder, if required.
Check the Key
It could be that your key is damaged if it does not turn in the ignition. Try removing any foreign material from the key (lint and adhesive from packing tape, etc). You could also try the key with rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone to see if it aids.
If the pins in the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test the spare key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after having insert it. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move, as they should. If not, you could lubricate the pins with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place as you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.
It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder to stop to turn, and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this instance you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.
If you can turn your car using an extra key, and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has been worn out. Try to open the lock using the blunt screwdriver or handle of the hammer. Do not use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place where your key is inserted and removed when inserted. Often times, it gets filled with debris or as the result of wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.
You can also use a small hammer and tap very gently on the inside of the ignition 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 try this, make sure the car's gearbox is in neutral or park. Many newer cars have a system that can stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral and prevent the key from being turned into the ignition.
If you have tried these steps and your key still won't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is essential to follow the correct steps.
This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners that hold it in the position.
Once the cover is removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to check the new one you bought with the old one to ensure that they are a perfect match. Following this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same way that you did with the old one.
Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is advised to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will be able to assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your car can be started again.