It's True That The Most Common Car Ignition Lock Debate Isn't As Black And White As You Might Think Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working

The ignition lock is a safety feature that stops you from getting your car started unless you have your original key. It is activated when you use the wheel for assistance when getting into or out of your vehicle, or when you touch it when parked.

It can also be triggered through vandalism or theft. You can fix your key if it is having trouble turning it.

The ignition switch for the ignition

The ignition switch is a small part of your car, but it's essential for driving it. It's the first things you turn on your vehicle and also activates nearly all other systems within the car as well. So when it doesn't work, it can be a huge issue.

Wear and tear is the primary cause of a car ignition switch failing. This could happen in time, particularly when you have a lot of other things on your keychain that are weighing it down. You can avoid this by having a separate set of keys for your house and car, and by decreasing the weight of your keychain. Another reason is mechanical issues. It can be difficult to remove or insert the key if the cylinder for ignition is not aligned properly. If this is the case, you'll need to have it replaced.

In addition to these mechanical issues Your ignition switch could be failing due to an electrical issue. In this scenario you may smell smoke or a burning smell when you attempt to start your vehicle. It is crucial to replace it as soon as you can to avoid further damage.

Another reason why you may be unable to start your car is that the ignition switch is locked in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents someone from taking the car key and then starting it. Typically, this means there is too much pressure on your ignition switch or that your key isn't working correctly.

In the latter case you can apply lubrication to the lock to see if it helps. This will eliminate any dirt particles blocking the key's ability to turn. Then try again. You can also apply silicone-based lubricant to prevent dirt from accumulating in the lock. If you still have trouble, try wiggling the key and then inserting it again.

The lock cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder on automobiles is the part that has a mechanical structure that the key is placed to allow the vehicle to start the car. The pins within the cylinder can move up and down permitting the key to move in and out. Also, it has wafer tumblers that hold the pins in place. Over time the tumblers could wear out or even break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder could eventually fail and cause a dead battery in your car and other issues.

The most common type is the cylindrical lock. They comprise an outer shell with an opening that is cylindrical, inside which the plug is placed. The outer shell is usually made of steel, while the plug is often constructed of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks are equipped with various pins that enable them to be locked or unlocked in a variety of ways. Certain cylinder locks come with additional security measures such as snap-line pins or other pins to prevent bumping the lock.

It is possible to tweak a difficult lock using graphite, however these solutions don't usually work for long. The more reliable option is to purchase a new ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by taking the old one out of your car, and replacing it with a new one. A new cylinder will also require new keys.

G28 Car Keys cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks that are more costly to replace. It is crucial that the procedure to replace an ignition cylinder is performed by an authorized professional. This is due to removal of components that could affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags).


To perform the replacement for the replacement, you'll have to disconnect the battery cable with negative charge. This is necessary to prevent the risk of an unintentional deployment of airbags. It is also recommended to remove the airbag system when it's equipped with one. Follow all instructions from the factory. You'll need reset the anti-theft codes after installing the new ignition lock. This will prevent your car from being stolen, and it may require the use of a particular tool.

The key

If you turn your key, but it won't start your car, it could be a sign that your ignition lock isn’t functioning properly. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the correct key is used to start your car. It's a mechanical part that is connected to an electrical component to "read" anti-theft coding to allow your vehicle to begin. In time the key could damage or wear out the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder, making it difficult to turn.

While replacing your key is typically the best solution however, you can also attempt some basic troubleshooting to help solve the ignition issue in your car at home. Make sure that your key is in the proper position and that the indicator is pointed toward the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If it's not, that could stop the engine from beginning and a quick check with your auto dealer may be necessary to figure out what's causing the issue.

Another step you can take is to press the key in the ignition switch, but be cautious not to apply too excessive force or pressure. This will allow for the release of any small damage to the wafer tumblers which is stopping it from turning. If this doesn't help then you could try lubricating the wafer with a silicone lubricant.

You can locate these kinds of fluids at the local auto parts store, but make sure you use an excellent one that stops dirt from accumulating and causing more problems in the future. If nothing else works then you'll have to take out the ignition cylinder and replace it with a new one. This is an easy process that DIYers can easily follow using online guides or manuals for auto repair.

If you've been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to deter drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube before they can begin their vehicle. The device should be installed only by a service provider that is that is approved, like Intoxalock and LifeSafer.

The wiring

In many vehicles the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected via wires. When you insert the key into the ignition, current flows through these wires, triggering all the electrical systems in your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't functioning or the switch isn't turning on it could be because the wire is disconnected. If you can't find the issue, it could be necessary to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder.

Interlock devices for ignition

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a car breathalyzer that has to be fitted in your vehicle as part of a criminal sanction or legal requirement. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use impairment in drivers by analyzing their breath prior to when the engine of the vehicle is started. If the IID determines the driver's alcohol content is higher than the allowed limit the alarm will sound, and/or the lights will flash so that the vehicle is stopped and the driver can take a second test.

Ignition Interlocks are a wonderful tool for those with an alcohol use disorder, as they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small, discreet and can be concealed to avoid being noticed. Ignition interlocks are leased, not purchased outright and cost can range from $60 to 90 per month.

The ignition switch and ignition cylinder work together to control all of the electrical parts in your vehicle. The ignition won't work in the event that one of these components are damaged or worn. If you're experiencing one of these issues, it's crucial to fix them in the shortest time possible.

If you are unable to get your car to start, try placing the key in neutral or Park and then turning it. If it doesn't work, you might need to remove the battery and take out the airbag to get access to the ignition switch. This is usually a straightforward task, but it will require an instrument to pull the steering wheel or a GM key removal kit and both are available for rental through AutoZone's loan-a tool program for no cost.