A Look Into The Future What Will The Car Ignition Lock Industry Look Like In 10 Years? Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition in your car may be locked. The key may be dirty or have a broken wafer inside it. You can fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder many times.

The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack hammer.

Check the Battery

If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it could be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. This can be easily solved by moving the switch upwards or downwards to get the car into the correct gear.

If it's still not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch, or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix these issues.


It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. In time, both the ignition and key can wear out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, like silicon lock lubricant can solve this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into the place.

Lint from your pocket and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can build on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. To fix this issue, you can try cleaning the key with a cloth or using a cleaner, like Triflow. You should also use a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

While the key is in the ignition you can tap it using a an hammer that is small. This will create a slight vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. You should be careful not to damage either the ignition cylinder or key.

If none of the suggestions above work, you need to consult a locksmith for help in figuring it out. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can make an alternative key in the event that the issue is the key. If the cylinder for the ignition is the problem then you'll have to take your car to a repair shop for it to be replaced. Luckily, these issues are usually very easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A simple issue that could stop the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It could happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel while they exit or enter the vehicle. This usually happens by pulling the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It can also happen when an individual in the back seat is unable to stop it when they climb out of the car.

This is a straightforward fix that doesn't require going to the locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the shifter is either in Park or Neutral. If G28 Car Keys 's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. Also, you should activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key.

If the wheel isn't locked taking a look at the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically marked by a tiny "Lock" label on the lower part of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling it or pulling it down with moderate force. It is important to not apply too much pressure since this can damage the key, or even break a wafer in the lock cylinder.

A spare key can be used to deactivate the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no longer able to engage the wafers in the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to make an appropriate replacement key.

If the new key still does not engage, a short spray of penetrating oil could aid. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this doesn't work, you will likely have to visit an expert at your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.

Check the Key

If you are unable get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You could also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it helps.

If the pins within the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after having put it in. This should allow you to be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, as they ought to. If not, you could grease the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into place when you insert the key and prevent them from getting stuck.

It is possible that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this instance, you'll need to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get 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 is possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver or the handle of an hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will often free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work then you'll need your lock's cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place where your key can slide in and out when you insert it. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or just 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 a small hammer to gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, ensure that the gearbox of your car is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars come with an electronic system that locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This can prevent the ignition key from turning.

If you have done all of this but not able to get your key to turn it is likely that the housing of your ignition cylinder needs replacement. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is crucial to follow the correct procedures.

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, remove any fasteners that hold it in place.

After the cover has been removed, you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then essential to compare the new one you purchased with the old one to make sure they are an identical match. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder in the same manner as the old one.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition may be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is recommended to contact Tempe Locksmith Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and then install it properly so that your vehicle can start again.