20 Truths About Car Ignition Lock: Busted Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working

An ignition lock is a security feature that prevents your car from starting until you have the original key. It is activated when you use the wheel for support while getting in or out of your vehicle, or when you touch it while parked.

It can also be caused by vandalism or theft. If you're having difficulty turning your key, these simple fixes could help:

The ignition switch

The ignition switch is a tiny piece of your car that's essential to drive it. It's among the first parts that you switch on when you start your car, and it also activates the majority of other systems. When it fails it can lead to a lot of problems.

Wear and tear is the primary cause of a car ignition switch failing. It can happen over time, especially if your keychain is weighed down by extra items. You can avoid this by having a separate key for your house and car, and by reducing weight on your keys. The other cause is mechanical issues. If the ignition cylinder is disaligned, it could make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this is the case you'll need to replace it.

In addition to these mechanical problems, your ignition switch may also be failing because of an electrical issue. You may notice the smell of smoke or burning when you try to start your vehicle. If this happens you notice smoke or a burning smell, it's crucial to have it repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage.

The ignition switch might be stuck in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents anyone from removing your key and starting the engine. Typically, this means that there is too high pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't working properly.

Try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if it aids. This will remove any dirt particles that are hindering the key from turning. You can then try again. You can also use an lubricant made of silicone, which can help stop dirt from building up inside the lock. If you are struggling, try wiggling your key and then inserting it once again.

The lock is a cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder on automobiles is the part that has a mechanical structure into which keys are placed to allow the vehicle to start the vehicle. The cylinder is equipped with pins that move up and down to let the key in and turn. Also, it has wafer tumblers to keep the pins in place. As time passes, these tumblers can wear down or break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder may eventually fail, resulting in the battery of your car dying and other problems.

Cylinder locks are the most common type of car lock. G28 Car Keys consist of an outer shell that has an opening that is cylindrical, inside which the plug is housed. The shell that covers the outer is typically made of steel, while the plug is often made of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks come with different pins that allow them to be locked or unlocked in various ways. Certain cylinder locks come with additional security measures, like snap-line pins or other pins to guard against lock bumping.

It is possible to refine a tough lock using graphite, but these solutions don't usually work very long. A more reliable solution is to buy a brand new ignition lock cylinder. It is as simple as removing the old cylinder for your ignition lock from your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. Keys will need to be replaced to replace the cylinder.

Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks that are more costly to replace. It is important that the process of replacing an ignition cylinder be performed by an accredited professional. This is due to removal of components that could interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags).

In order to replace the battery for the replacement, you'll have to disconnect the negative battery cable. This is required to prevent an airbag from being accidentally deployed. It is also recommended to disable the airbag system, if your vehicle is equipped with it. Follow all factory instructions. You'll have to reset the anti-theft codes after installing the new ignition lock. This will help to prevent your vehicle from being taken. It may require a specific tool.

The crucial

If you turn your key, but it doesn't start your car, this could be an indication that your ignition lock isn't working. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the right key is used to start your vehicle. It's a small mechanical part that is used in conjunction with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to start. Over time the key could wear out or damage the wafer tumblers in the lock cylinder. This can make it difficult to turn.

While the replacement of a key is often the best solution but you can also attempt some basic troubleshooting methods to resolve the ignition issue of your car at home. Make sure that your key is in the proper position and that the indicator is pointed towards the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it could cause the vehicle to not start. You may need to speak with your dealer to determine what's the reason for the issue.

Another step you can take is to press the the ignition switch, but take care not to apply too excessive force or pressure. This will help to eliminate any minor damage to the tumblings of the wafer which is preventing it from rotating. If this isn't working, try lubricating the lock cylinder with a silicone-based lubricant to get it moving again.

These lubricants are available at your local auto parts shop. But, it is important to make sure to use a premium lubricant to prevent dirt from building up. This could cause problems down the road. If nothing else works, you'll need to remove the ignition cylinder and replace it with a new one. This is a simple procedure that DIYers can do with the help of online guides or manuals for auto repair.

If you've recently been convicted for an DUI or DWI or DWI, your state might require that you install an ignition interlock device (IID). These devices are designed to prevent drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe through a tube before they can begin their vehicle. The device is installed by a company that is approved, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.

The wiring


In many automobiles the ignition switch as well as lock cylinder are connected via wires. When you put your key in the ignition the current flows through these wires and activates all the electrical systems within your vehicle. If the electrical system is not working or the switch is stuck in the on position, it may be because a wire is disconnected. If you can't find the issue, it could be necessary to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder.

Ignition interlock devices

A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that must be installed in your vehicle to comply with the law or a criminal obligation. Ignition interlocks detect alcohol use disorder in drivers by measuring their breath before the engine of the vehicle is started. If the IID determines that the driver's alcohol consumption is greater than the limit allowed, a warning horn will sound and the lights will flash, so that the vehicle can be stopped and the driver can take a second test.

Ignition interlocks are a great option for those suffering from alcohol use disorders, as they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior beginning the car. They are small, discreet and can be hidden to keep them from being noticed. Ignition interlocks are leased, not purchased outright and the price is between $60 and $90 per month.

The ignition switch and ignition cylinder regulate all electrical components inside your vehicle. If any of these parts are damaged or worn out the ignition won't start. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's important to fix them in the shortest time possible.

If you're having difficulty starting your vehicle Try putting the key in neutral or park, and then turning it. If this doesn't work, you might need to take off the airbag and then disconnect the battery to access the ignition switch. This is a relatively simple job that can be accomplished using a steering wheel puller or GM key removal tool that you can borrow from AutoZone’s free loan-a-tool service.