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Why is My Car Ignition Locked? There are many reasons your ignition may be stuck. The key could be dirty or may have a damaged wafer in it. This can be corrected by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder multiple times. The pins on the lock cylinder could 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 car is in Park, neutral or won't start when the key is turned on. This can be easily solved by moving the switch up or down to get the car into the gear. If it is still not turning, the issue may be with the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. These can be easily fixed by a mechanic, or a local locksmith for cars. The ignition cylinder could also wear out. Over time, the ignition as well as the key may wear out, which causes them to become difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock grease can solve this issue, letting wafers to slide into place. The key may become blocked with lint in your pockets, as well as adhesive from tape that is used to secure packages. This can prevent the key from sliding into the ignition. To solve this problem try cleaning the key using a cloth or using a cleaner such as Triflow. You could also try a spare key in order to determine if the issue is the ignition or the key. You can also tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This can cause a slight vibration, which may be enough to loosen up the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide in place. You must be cautious not to damage 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 examined. The key might be broken within the cylinder for ignition or it could be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can create a replacement key if the issue is with the key. If auto key stuck in ignition in the ignition is the cause, you will need to take your car to a repair shop for it to be replaced. These problems are usually easy to fix. Check the Steering Wheel A steering wheel that is locked may cause the ignition to not turn. This occurs when the driver has a mistake and engages it as they exit or enter the vehicle. It is usually caused by pulling on the wheel while balancing themself against it using their hands. It may also happen when a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they get out of the car. This is a straightforward fix that doesn't require a trip to the 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 moves to one of these positions. It is also essential to press the brake button or activate the handbrake before you attempt to turn the key. If the wheel is not locked, a quick inspection of the steering column will determine if the key is in contact with the lock cylinder. A small “Lock' label is usually found in the lower portion the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the key with moderate force. It is crucial not to apply excessive force since it could damage the key or even cut off a wafer within the lock cylinder. Another thing to try is using a spare key to see if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and cannot engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. If this is the situation the locksmith at Karl Chevrolet Webster City will be able to design an appropriate replacement key. If the key still doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it might help. Simply spray a tiny amount around the ignition, and keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn't work you, you might need to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They can supply you with a replacement key and also replace the ignition cylinder, if required. Check the Key If you're unable to get your key to turn in the ignition, it is 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 may also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids. It's possible that the lock pins inside are not moving properly when you insert the key. You can test the spare key by gently removing it of the ignition once you have put it in. You should be able to hear and feel the pins moving within. If you don't hear or feel any movement, you could grease them with graphite. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be put into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into position when you insert the key and stop them from getting stuck. It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to work with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder in the ignition to stop turning and stop you from starting your vehicle. In this instance you'll need to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith to get service. If you are able to turn your car using a spare key, and you have eliminated any problems with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has worn out. You can try to loosen the lock using a blunt screwdriver or a handle of smaller hammers. Do not use the head. Tapping the cylinder gently will usually free it and allow you to turn your key and start your car. If this doesn't work, you will need to have the lock cylinder replaced by an expert mechanic. Check the Ignition Socket The ignition socket is where your key is inserted and slides out of place when inserted. Often times, it gets gunked up with debris or as a result of regular wear and wear and tear. You can inject some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition. You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be very cautious not to overdo this, or you could cause major 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 cars come with an option to stop the steering wheel from turning when it is not in neutral or park, which can prevent the key from turning into the ignition. 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 crucial to follow the correct steps. This usually involves removing the plastic covering that covers the steering column and the ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll need to adjust the tilt-wheel in its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in place. After removing the cover, you'll need to take off the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one you bought with the original one to ensure that they are an identical match. After this step, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way as the old one. It is possible that even with our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and need to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you call a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith will be able to assist you in choosing the appropriate replacement and install it properly to ensure that your vehicle can start again.