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Why is My Car Ignition Locked? There are many reasons why your car ignition may be locked. The key might be dirty or has a broken wafer inside it. This can be corrected by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times. The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can employ a small tackhammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen them. Check the Battery The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning when the car is in Park neutral or will not start when the key is turned on. This can be repaired by moving the shifter up or down to put the car into the correct gear. If it is still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic, or an auto locksmith in your area. It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Over time the ignition as well as the key can wear out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant can aid in solving this issue by allowing the silicon wafers to slide into the place. Lint from your pocket and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can also build up on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue try cleaning the keys with a cloth or using an instrument cleaner, such as Triflow. It is also recommended to use a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition. When the key is in the ignition you can tap it using a the hammer with a small amount. This will cause a small vibration, which could be enough to loosen up the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide in the right position. But, be very careful not to scratch the ignition key or cylinder. If all of the above options fail, it's probably time to call a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key has been damaged inside the ignition or it could be time to replace the entire thing. If the issue is with the key the locksmith will be able to make a new one for you. If the issue is with the ignition cylinder, the car must be taken to a repair shop to get it replaced. Luckily, these issues are generally easy to fix. Check the steering wheel A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is a locked steering wheel. This can happen if the driver has a mistake and engages it when they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by yanking on the wheel while supporting themself against it using their hands. It can also happen if a passenger in the rear seat accidentally engages the brakes as they exit the vehicle. This is a straightforward solution that doesn't require going to the locksmith or mechanic. First, make ignition barrel replacement near me that the gear shift is either in neutral or Park. If it's not, push or pull the shifter slowly until it moves into one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key. If the wheel isn't locked, a quick look at the steering column will tell whether the key is engaged with the lock. This is typically identified by a small “Lock” label on the lower part of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling it or pulling on it with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much force, as this could cause damage to the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder. A spare key can be used to deactivate the lock. This could mean that the original key has damaged and no capable of engaging the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case. If the new key isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil could assist. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If this doesn't work, you will probably need to visit an expert at your local auto dealership. They can supply you with a replacement key and can also replace the ignition cylinder, if required. Check the Key It could be that your key is damaged if it doesn't turn in the ignition. You can try removing any foreign material from the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You may also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids. If the pins inside the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently removing it of the ignition after having put it in. This should let you hear and feel if the internal lock pins move as they should. If you don't feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be sprinkled into the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck. A more serious issue with your key may be that it has worn or damaged and is unable to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the ignition cylinder not to turn, and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this instance you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service. If you are able to turn your car using a spare key, and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery, it could be that the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or the handle of a Hammer (not the head). A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does not work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic. Check the Ignition Socket The ignition socket is where your key can slide in and out when it is inserted. It is prone to getting blocked with debris, or simply wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition. You can also use a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be careful not to overdo it, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch. Before you attempt this, make sure the car's gearbox is either in park or neutral. A majority of modern cars have an electronic system that locks the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This can prevent the ignition key from being turned. If you've tried all of these methods and your key still won't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is essential to follow the correct steps. This typically involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners holding it in place. After you have removed the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one you purchased with the original one to ensure that they are a perfect match. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder the same way as the old one. Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is advised to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your car can start again.