How To Explain Car Ignition Lock To Your Grandparents
Why is My Car Ignition Locked?
There are several reasons why the ignition of your car could be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside. This can be fixed by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder multiple times.
The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder lightly with a small tack-hammer.
Check the Battery
If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it might be a problem with the transmission shifter switch. This can be fixed by moving the shifter up or down to get the car into the gear.
If it's still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic, or a local automotive locksmith.
It is also possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. Over time, both the ignition and key may wear out, making them difficult to insert or remove. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease can address this issue, letting wafers to slide into place.
The filth from your pockets and adhesive from tapes that hold packages together can build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem, you can try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or a cleaner, like Triflow. You can also test a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the key.
You could also tap the key using a small hammer when it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that may cause enough friction to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide in place. Be g28carkeys.co.uk not to harm either the ignition cylinder, or the key.
If all of the above methods are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith automotive mechanic to have it looked at. It could be that the key is broken in the ignition, or it could be time to replace the entire thing. If the problem is with the key the locksmith can make a new one for you. If the cylinder in the ignition is the cause, you will need to bring the vehicle to a repair shop in order for it to be repaired. Luckily, these problems are generally easy to repair.
Check the Steering Wheel
A simple problem that can prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. This happens if the driver accidentally engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle. This is usually caused by yanking on the wheel while balancing themselves against it with their hands. It can also happen when someone in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car.
Fortunately it's a simple fix that doesn't require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, check that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it shifts to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake 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 whether 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. You can easily disable this by gently moving the key or pulling it with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply too much force as it could damage the key or even tear a wafer from the lock cylinder.
Another thing to try is to use a spare key to see whether it is able to unengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key has worn out and is no longer able to 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 won't engage, a quick spray of penetrating oil can help. Apply a small amount penetrating oil to the keyhole and ignition. Then, jiggle the key or tap it lightly to activate it. If this does not work you, you might need to speak with a specialist at your local dealership for cars. They can supply you with a new key and also replace the ignition cylinder in case of need.
Check the Key
If you are unable to get your key to turn the ignition, it is likely that there is something wrong with your key. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is 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 can help.
If the pins inside the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. You can test an extra key by gently sliding it out of the ignition once you have put it in. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving inside. If you don't feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can purchase graphite in small tubes that can be squirted into the keyhole. This will assist the pins slide into position when you insert the key and prevent them from becoming stuck.
A more serious problem is that it has damaged or worn, making it unable to engage the internal pins inside the ignition cylinder. This could cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, and prevent you from starting your vehicle. In this case you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service.
If you're able to turn your car using a spare key, and you have eliminated any issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. It is possible to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver, or the handle of a Hammer (not the head). Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder will release it up and allow you to turn your car key. If this doesn't work, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Ignition Socket
The ignition socket is where your key slides into and out of place when inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or simply wear and wear and tear. Try putting some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward.
You can also use a small hammer to very gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder to try to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Again, be very careful not to overdo this or you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch.
Before you do this, ensure that your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. A lot of newer vehicles come with a system which locks the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or in park. This can prevent the ignition key from being turned.
If you've tried all of this but cannot get your key to turn, it is likely that the ignition cylinder housing needs replacement. 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 ignition assembly. To remove this, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position and then remove any fasteners holding it in place.
Once the cover has been removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder out of the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one you have purchased with the previous 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.
It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. It is suggested that if this happens, you call an Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can help you select the best replacement and then install it properly to ensure that your vehicle will restart.