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How The 10 Worst Car Ignition Lock Mistakes Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?

There are many reasons why your ignition might be stuck. The key could be dirty or have a broken wafer in it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder several times.

The pins of the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap the cylinder to loosen the pins.

Check the Battery

The shifter switch on the transmission may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is turned on. This can be easily repaired by moving the shifter up or down to get the car into the gear.

If it's not turning, the problem could be related to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic, or a local automotive locksmith.

It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, causing them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant like silicon lock grease could solve this issue, letting the wafers to slide into place.

The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to secure packages. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key with a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to resolve this problem. Also, you can use a spare key to see if the problem is with the ignition or the ignition.

While the key is in ignition, you can tap it with a small piece of hammer. This will cause a slight vibration that could cause enough friction to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide in place. However, you must be careful not to scratch the ignition key or cylinder.

If none of the above works, you must contact a locksmith to test the issue. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition, or it might be time to replace it completely. If the problem is with the key the locksmith can make a new one for you. If the cylinder for the ignition is the problem, you will need to take the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be replaced. Luckily, these issues are usually very easy to solve.

Check the steering wheel

A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to stop turning. This happens if the driver has a mistake and engages it while exiting or enter the vehicle and is typically caused by pulling on the wheel and securing themself against it using their hands. It could also happen when a passenger in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they get out of the vehicle.

Fortunately it's a simple fix and doesn't require a trip to locksmiths or mechanics. First, ensure that the gear shift is either in Park or neutral. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key.

If the wheel isn't locked a quick look at the steering column will show if the key has been engaged with the lock. This is usually marked by a tiny "Lock" label in the lower area of the ignition circle. This can be easily disengaged by gently jiggling it or pulling it back with moderate force. It is essential not to apply excessive force since this could cause damage to the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.

Another thing to try is to use a spare key to see whether it is able to disengage the lock. This could mean that the key is worn and cannot engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional from 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 can help. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to make sure it is working. If locksmith ignition replacement cost does not work, you'll likely have to visit a specialist at your local auto dealership. They can provide you with a new key and can also replace the ignition cylinder if needed.

Check the Key

If you are unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it is possible that there is a problem with your key. Try taking off any foreign material on the key (lint or adhesive from packing tape, etc.). You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this helps.

If the pins inside the lock aren't moving correctly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently pulling it out of the ignition after having insert it. You should be able to hear and feel the pins move inside. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be put into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place when you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck.

A more serious issue with your key could be that it has become worn or damaged and is unable to engage the internal pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your car. In this instance you'll have to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for assistance.

If you're able to turn the 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. You can try to unlock the lock by using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. Sometimes, a gentle tap on the cylinder will loosen it up and allow you to turn the key of your car. If this doesn't 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 can get clogged up with dust, or simply wear and wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition.

You can also use a small hammer and tap gently on the inside of the ignition to try to loosen or reset the pins that are not aligned. Be careful not to overdo this, or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.

Before you do this, make sure your car's gearbox is in neutral or park. A majority of modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned.

If you've done all of this and still not able to get your key to rotate it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing is in need of replacement. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder.

This typically involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you will need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then unscrew any fasteners that hold it in place.

After removing the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you'll need to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to ensure that they are the same. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed.

It is possible that even with our best efforts, an ignition can be damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that when this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help determine the correct replacement and install it correctly so that your vehicle can start again.