Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are many reasons why your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer in it. You can fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder many times.
Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder are stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack-hammer.
Check G28 Car Keys on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is switched on. You can fix it by moving the gear shifter up or down to put the vehicle into the correct gear.
If the car still won't turn, the problem could be with the neutral safety cable or shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily fix these problems.
The ignition cylinder could also wear out. In time the ignition as well as the key can wear out, making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, could aid in solving this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.
The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build up on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. You can clean the keys with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to resolve this issue. You may also try a spare key in order to determine if the issue is the key or ignition.
While the key is in the ignition, you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. This can cause a small vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. Be careful not to harm either the ignition cylinder, or the key.
If none of the suggestions above works, you must contact a locksmith to test the issue. It could be that the key is damaged inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the entire thing. A locksmith can make an alternative key in the event that the issue is the key. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause then you'll have to bring the car to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. These issues are generally simple to solve.
Check the steering wheel
A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. It could happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking the wheel and holding it against their body. It can also happen if a passenger in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they get out of the vehicle.
Fortunately it's an easy fix and doesn't require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, check that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key.
If the wheel isn't locked, taking a look at the steering column will reveal whether the key has been engaged with the lock. A small "Lock label can be located in the lower area of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is important to not use too much pressure as it could damage the key, or break a wafer within the lock cylinder.
A spare key can be used to deactivate the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation then a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key.
If the key doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it may aid. Simply spray a tiny amount of oil around the ignition and inserted keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it begins to work. If this does not work, you'll probably need to visit an expert at your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder if needed.
Check the Key
If you are 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 or adhesive from packing tape, etc). It is also possible to rub alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if it aids.
If the pins within the lock aren't moving in a proper manner when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have a spare key to test, try putting it in the ignition and gently sliding it back out. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving within. If you don't feel any movement, you can grease them with graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be put into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.
A more serious problem with your key may be that it has damaged or worn, making it unable to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder to stop to turn, preventing you from starting your car. In this case you'll have to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.
If you can turn your car on with a spare key and you've ruled out any issues with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can attempt 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 and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work, you will need to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and removed when inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or simply wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move along.
You can also employ a small hammer and very gently tap the inside of the cylinder for ignition, in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo it or you could cause significant damage to the ignition switch.
It is essential to ensure whether your car's transmission is set to neutral or park before you attempt this. Many modern cars have a system that can stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in park or neutral, which can prevent the key from being turned into the ignition.
If you have tried all of these steps and your key doesn't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is important to follow the correct procedure.
Generally, this means removing the plastic cover that is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then remove any fasteners holding it in place.
After removing the cover you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll have to check the new ignition cylinder that you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they are the same. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the old one was removed.
It is possible that despite our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact an Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will help you select the proper replacement and then install it correctly to ensure that your car can be started again.