Notes

20 Questions You Should ASK ABOUT Car Ignition Lock Before You Buy Car Ignition Lock
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are a variety of reasons your ignition might be stuck. The key may be dirty or have a broken wafer inside it. This can be corrected by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins on the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.

Check the Battery

If the car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it could be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. You can fix this by shifting the gear shifter up or downward to get the car into gear.

If the car doesn't turn, the issue could be due to the neutral safety cable or shifter on the transmission. This can be easily solved by a mechanic or by a local locksmith for cars.

The ignition cylinder could also wear out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting the wafers slide into place.

The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from being able to slide into the ignition. To resolve this issue try cleaning the keys with a cloth or using an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. You should also utilize a spare key in order to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

You can also try to tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a small vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide into position. However, you must be cautious not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.

If all of the above solutions fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. The key could be damaged in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be the time to replace it all. Locksmiths can create an alternate key if the issue is the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, your car must be taken to a repair shop to have it repaired. Luckily, these issues are typically very simple to fix.

Check the steering wheel

A simple issue that could stop the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It can also happen when a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car.

Fortunately it's an easy fix that doesn't require a trip locksmiths or mechanics. First, make sure the gear shift is either in Park or Neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It's also important to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to trying to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked, a quick examination of the steering column should reveal if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small "Lock label is typically located in the lower part of the ignition circle. It is easily removed by gently jiggling it or pulling on it with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much force as it could damage the key or break off a wafer inside the lock cylinder.

A spare key can also be used to deactivate the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers within the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case.

If the new key won't engage, a quick spray of oil that penetrates can help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the ignition and keyhole. Then, ignition cylinder lock repair or tap it lightly to get it working. If this doesn't help you, you might need to seek out a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They will be able to provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder, in the event that it is required.

Check the Key

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

It is possible that the internal lock pins are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition after having put it in. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving inside. If you don't feel any movement, you could grease them with graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be squirted directly into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into position when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key may be that it has become damaged or worn out which makes it ineligible to connect the internal pins of the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder in the ignition to not turn and stop you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need bring your car to repair or locksmith shop for repair.

If you can turn your car on with a spare key and you've ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is been worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder using the blunt end of a screwdriver or handle of a hammer (not the head). Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this doesn't work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic.

Check the Ignition Socket

The ignition socket is the place your key is inserted and slides out of place when inserted. Often times, it gets filled with debris or simply the result of wear and wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder in an effort to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo it or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.


Before you attempt this, ensure that the gearbox of your car is either in park or neutral. Many newer cars have an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park and prevent the key from being turned into the ignition.

If you have tried these steps and your key doesn't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. It is important to know that different vehicles will require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then loosen any fasteners holding it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll have to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you will need to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to confirm that they're identical. Once this step is complete, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

Sometimes, despite all of our efforts, the ignition may become damaged and require replacement. It is suggested that if this happens, you contact an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you select the best replacement and then install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.

Website: https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-ignition-lock-repair-near-me/