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Why is My Car Ignition Locked? There are several reasons why your car ignition may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. You can fix it by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times. Another possibility is that the pins inside the lock cylinder are stuck. You could tap the cylinder lightly using a small tack hammer. Check the Battery The transmission shifter switch may be malfunctioning if the vehicle is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is switched on. 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 problem could be related to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily solve these problems. The ignition cylinder can also wear out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key can wear out, causing them to become difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock lubricant can help solve this problem by allowing the wafers slide into place. The key could get clogged with lint in your pockets as well as adhesive from tape used to keep packages in place. This stops the key from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem, you can try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or a cleaner, such as Triflow. You can also test a spare key to determine if the issue is the key or ignition. When the key is in the ignition you can tap it using a a small piece of hammer. This will create a tiny vibration, which could be enough to loosen up the wafers in the ignition and let them slide into place. However, you should be very careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key. cylinder. If all of the above methods fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. The key may be damaged within the cylinder for ignition or it could be the time to replace it all. If the problem is with the key, a locksmith will be able to create a new one for you. If the cylinder for the ignition is the cause then you'll have to bring the vehicle to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These issues are generally simple to repair. Check the steering wheel A common issue that can hinder the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It could happen if drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel as they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by pulling the wheel while resting it against their body. It could also happen if someone in the rear seat has a mishap and engages the brakes while they exit the vehicle. This is a quick fix that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in either Park or Neutral. If it's not you can gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. You must also turn on the handbrake or press the brake before turning the key. If the wheel isn't locked an inspection of the steering column will show whether the key is engaged with the lock. A small “Lock' label is usually 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 important to not apply too much pressure since it could damage the key, or even damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder. A spare key can also be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key has damaged and no more able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to create an appropriate replacement key. If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can assist. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the ignition and keyhole. Then, jiggle it or tap it lightly to get it working. If this does not work you, it's possible to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They can supply you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder if needed. Check the Key If you are unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. You can clean any foreign material (lint from packing tape or adhesive) from the key. You can also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this can help. If the pins within the lock do not move properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently pulling it out of the ignition once you have insert it. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving inside. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using powdered graphite. You can purchase graphite in small tubes which can be squirted into the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into place when you insert the key and keep them from getting stuck. A more serious issue with your key could be that it has worn or damaged and is unable to connect the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This may cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your car. In this instance you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service. If you can turn your vehicle with a spare key and you've cleared the issue with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to unlock the lock by using an abrasive screwdriver or handle of a small hammer. Don't use the head. Gently tapping on the cylinder can often release it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If car ignition switch does not work then you'll need to replace the lock cylinder by a mechanic. Check the Ignition Socket The ignition socket is the place your key slides in and out of position when it is inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or just wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant into the ignition. You can also use a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the cylinder for ignition, to try to loosen or reset the pins that may be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it, or you could cause severe damage to the ignition switch. It is important to check that your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park prior to attempting this. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or in park. This will stop the ignition key from turning. If you have tried all of these steps and your key doesn't turn, it is possible that the ignition housing needs to be replaced. It is important to remember that different vehicles require different procedures when replacing the ignition cylinder. This typically involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then, loosen any fasteners that hold it in the position. After the cover has been removed, you will need to take the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. Then, you'll have to compare the new ignition cylinder you purchased with the one you removed to confirm that they are the same. After this is completed, you can install the new ignition cylinder in exactly the same way as the previous one. Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition will become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it's recommended that you contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can help you choose the right replacement and ensure it is installed correctly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.