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 in it. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder a few times.
Another possibility is that the pins in the lock cylinder are stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer.
Check the Battery
If your car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when the key is inserted into the ignition, it might be an issue with the shifter switch for the transmission. This can be solved by moving the switch upwards or downwards to get the car into the gear.
If the car doesn't turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable, or the shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can easily solve these issues.
It's also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time, both the ignition and key can become worn out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease could solve this issue, letting the wafers slide into place.
The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build over the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner, such as Triflow to fix this issue. You may also test a spare key to determine if the problem is the key or ignition.
When the key is in the ignition, you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This can cause a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen up the ignition's wafers and let them slide into the right position. But, be very careful not to harm the key or the ignition cylinder.
If all of the above methods fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key might be broken inside the ignition cylinder or it could be time to replace it altogether. If the issue is with the key, a locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the ignition cylinder is the problem then you'll have to take the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to fix.
Check the steering wheel
A simple issue that could stop the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This happens if the driver has a mistake and engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themself against it using their hands. It can also happen when a passenger in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.
Fortunately, this is an easy fix and does not require a trip to a mechanic or a locksmith. First, make sure that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter until it shifts into one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.
If the wheel isn't locked, a quick check of the steering column will reveal if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. This is typically identified by a small "Lock" label in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is important not to use excessive force since this could damage the key or tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
Another thing to try is to use an alternate key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key has damaged and no capable of engaging the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key if this is the case.
If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can aid. Simply spray a tiny amount of oil around the ignition and the keyhole that you have inserted, and then gently tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn't help you, it's possible to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They'll be able provide you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.
Check the Key
If you're unable to get your key to turn on the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint and 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 within the lock do not move in a proper manner when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, you can try placing it in the ignition and gently removing it. This should allow you to hear and feel if the internal lock pins move as they ought to. If not, you can apply lubrication to the pins using powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will allow the pins slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.
A more serious issue with your key may be that it has become damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to engage the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder to stop to turn, and prevent you from starting your car. If this happens, you will need to take your vehicle to a locksmith or repair shop for service.
If you're able to turn your car using a spare key, and you have eliminated any issues with the battery or steering wheel 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. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will release it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when you insert it. Often times, it gets gunked up with debris or simply due to wear and wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.
You can also use the small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset the pins that are not aligned. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you do this, ensure that the car's gearbox is in neutral or park. Many modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from being turned in the ignition.
If Continuing tried all of the above and still can't get your key to rotate it is most likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder requires replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.
Generally, this means removing the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then unscrew any fasteners holding it in place.
After you have removed the cover, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to compare the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one that was removed to ensure that they're identical. Following this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way as the old one.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended to contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you in selecting the right replacement and install it properly to ensure that your car can start again.