Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition could be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer in it. This can be repaired by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times.

The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to lightly tap on the cylinder to loosen them.

Check the Battery

If the 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 transmission shifter switch. This can be fixed by moving the shifter up or down to get the car in the correct 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 a local automotive locksmith.

The mobile ignition lock repair services cylinder can also be worn out. Over time both the ignition and key can wear out making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can solve this problem, allowing the wafers to slide into place.

The key could get clogged by lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape that is used to hold packages together. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue try cleaning the key using an old cloth or using a cleaner, such as Triflow. You could also try a spare key in order to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the key.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers inside the ignition, allowing them to slide into place. However, you must be very careful not to damage the key or the ignition cylinder.

If all of the above methods are unsuccessful, it's time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key might be broken in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be time to replace it completely. A locksmith can make an alternate key in the event that the issue is the key. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, the car will need to be brought to a repair shop in order to get it replaced. These problems are usually easy to fix.

Make sure you check the steering Wheel

A steering wheel that is locked can cause the ignition to stop turning. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel as they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen if someone in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they get out of the vehicle.

This is a straightforward solution that doesn't require a trip to the mechanic or locksmith. First, ensure that the gear shift 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. It's also important to press the brake or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick inspection of the steering column should confirm that the key is connected to the lock cylinder. A small "Lock' label is usuyou can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be put directly into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place as you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious problem with your key may be that it has become worn or damaged and is unable to engage the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This could cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, and prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this is the case you'll need to take your car to repair or locksmith shop for service.

If you're able to turn your car ignition Lock on with an extra key, and you have ruled out any problems with the battery or steering wheel it could be because the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can try to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of the Hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder can often release it which allows you to turn your key and start 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 the place where your key is inserted and removed when it is inserted. It is often filled with debris or as due to wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

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. Be careful not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you attempt this, make sure the car's gearbox is in neutral or park. A lot of newer cars come with a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park that can stop the key from turning in the ignition.

If you have done all of this but can't get your key to rotate, it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder is in need of replacement. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is essential to follow the correct procedure.

Generally, this means removal of the plastic cover which is over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll need to take off 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 install the new ignition cylinder in the same way that you did with the old one.

It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly, so that your car can be started again.