Why is My car key ignition replacement near me ignition locked (online)?
There are several reasons why your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer in it. You can fix it 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 doesn’t come on when you insert the key into the ignition, it might be an issue with the transmission shifter switch. This can be easily fixed by moving the shifter upwards or downwards to get the car in the correct gear.
If the car still won’t turn, the problem could be related to the neutral safety cable, or the shifter in the transmission. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily solve these problems.
The ignition cylinder may also be worn out. In time both the ignition and key may wear out and become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant, could help solve this problem by allowing the wafers to slide into place.
The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build over the key, which prevents it from sliding into the ignition. To fix this issue you can try cleaning the key with the help of a cloth or an instrument cleaner, like Triflow. Also, you can make use of a spare key to see if the problem is with the key or the ignition.
When the key is in ignition you can tap it with the hammer with a small amount. This will cause a slight vibration that could be enough to loosen the wafers in the ignition and allow them to slide into place. However, you must be very careful not to scratch the key or the ignition cylinder.
If none of the suggestions above works, you must consult a locksmith for help in figuring the issue. The key may be damaged in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be time to replace it completely. A locksmith can make an alternative key in the event that the issue is the key. If the ignition cylinder is the issue, you will need to bring the car to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. These problems are usually easy to fix.
Examine the Steering Wheel
A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to stop turning. This happens if the driver accidentally engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle and is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themselves against it with their hands. It may also happen when someone in the back seat is unable to stop it when they get out of the car.
This is a simple fix that doesn’t require a trip to the mechanic or locksmith. First, make sure the gear shift is either in Park or Neutral. If it isn’t, simply push or pull the shifter until it changes 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 reveal whether the key is engaged with the lock. A small “Lock label is typically located in the lower part of the ignition circle. You can easily disable this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much force as it could damage the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder.
A spare key may also be used to unengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key has damaged and no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation, a professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key.
If the key still doesn’t engage after spraying penetrating lubricant it could help. 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 isn’t working, you’ll likely need to see a specialist at your local auto dealership. They will be able to give you a new key and replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary.
Check the Key
It is possible that your key may be damaged if it will not engage in the ignition. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You could also try alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids.
It’s possible that the lock pins inside aren’t working properly when you insert the key. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition after having insert it. This should let you feel and hear if the internal lock pins move, which they should. If you can’t hear or feel any movement, you can apply lubrication using graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This will allow the pins slide into place when you insert the key and keep them from getting stuck.
It could be that your key has damaged or worn out and isn’t able to connect with the pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your vehicle. If this happens you’ll need bring your car to a locksmith or repair shop for assistance.
If you are able to turn your car on with an extra key, and you have ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to unlock the lock by using the blunt screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. A gentle tap on the cylinder will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your car. If this is not working, you will need to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is the place your key slides in and out of position when it is inserted. It can get clogged up with debris, or just wear and tear. You can try squirting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to make things move forward.
You can also use the small hammer, and tap gently on the inside of the ignition in order to loosen or reset the pins that are out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause major damage to the ignition switch.
It is important to check that your car’s transmission is set to park or neutral before you attempt this. A majority of modern cars have an option to lock the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This could prevent the ignition key from turning.
If you have tried all of these methods but your key is still unable to turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. Different vehicles have different methods of replacing the ignition cylinder. Therefore, it is essential to follow the correct procedure.
Generally speaking, this involves removal of the plastic cover which is placed over the steering column and ignition key replacement assembly. To remove this cover, you’ll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest setting and then remove any fasteners holding it in place.
After you have removed the cover, you’ll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. Then, you’ll have to check the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one that was removed to make sure that they are the same. Following this step you can then install the new ignition cylinder lock repair cylinder the same way as the old one.
Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition may be damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it’s recommended that you contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you determine the correct replacement and ensure it is installed correctly so that your car can start again.