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Why is My Car Ignition Locked? There are several reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer inside it. This can be corrected by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder multiple times. The pins on the lock cylinder can also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently with a small tack-hammer. Check the Battery If your car is in Park or neutral, but doesn't come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, there may be an issue with the shifter switch for the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by shifting the gear shifter upwards or down to get the car into gear. If it's not turning, the problem could be related to the neutral safety switch or the transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or an auto locksmith can easily solve these problems. It is also possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. In time both the ignition and key can wear out, making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant, such as silicon lock grease could solve this problem, allowing the wafers slide into place. The lint in your pocket and the adhesive from tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, preventing it from sliding into the ignition. Clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow, to solve this issue. Also, you can use a spare key to see if the problem is related to the key or the ignition. You could also tap the key using a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will create a tiny vibration, which may cause enough vibration to loosen the wafers inside the ignition and allow them to slide into place. Be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key. If all of the above options are unsuccessful, it's time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to have it examined. ignition key replacement cost may be damaged in the cylinder of ignition, or it might be time to replace it altogether. Locksmiths can make a replacement key in the event that the issue is the key. If the problem is related to the ignition cylinder, the vehicle must be taken to a repair shop in order to have it replaced. Fortunately, these issues are usually very easy to repair. Check the Steering Wheel A locked steering wheel can cause the ignition to not turn. It can happen when drivers accidentally engage the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. 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. This is a simple solution that doesn't require an appointment with a mechanic or locksmith. First, check that the gear shift is in Neutral or Park. If it's not, gently push or pull the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. You should also activate the handbrake or press the brake prior to turning the key. If the wheel is not locked, a quick check of the steering column should reveal if the key is connected to 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 essential not to apply too much pressure since this can damage the key, or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder. A spare key can be used to unengage the lock. This could indicate that the key is worn out and is no longer able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. A professional at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case. If the new key still isn't engaging, a quick spray of penetrating oil can assist. Apply a small amount around the ignition, and inserted keyhole, then jiggle or tap it lightly until it starts to engage. If this doesn't work, you may need to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They'll be able provide you with a replacement key and replace the ignition cylinder, should it be necessary. Check the Key It could be that your key is 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 should also try rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone on the key to see if this helps. If the pins within the lock do not move correctly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, try putting it into the ignition and gently pulling it out. This should let you be able to feel and hear if internal lock pins move, as they ought to. If not, you could lubricate the pins with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes which can be put into the keyhole. This will help the pins slide into place as you insert the key, and will prevent them from getting stuck. It is possible that your key has become damaged or worn out and isn't able to connect with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This could 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 vehicle to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service. If you can turn your car on with an extra key, and you have eliminated any issues with the battery or steering wheel, it is possible that the ignition cylinder has been worn out. Try to open the lock with the blunt screwdriver or handle of smaller hammers. Don't use the head. Gently tapping on the cylinder will usually free it, allowing you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this does not work it is necessary to replace the lock cylinder by an expert mechanic. Check the Ignition Socket The ignition socket is where your key can slide in and out when inserted. Often times, it gets gunked up with debris or as the result of wear and wear and tear. Try spraying some silicon lock lubricant (like WD-40) into the ignition to help things move forward. You can also employ a small hammer and gently tap the inside of the ignition cylinder in an attempt to loosen or reset the pins which may be out of alignment. Be cautious not to overdo it as you could cause serious damage to the ignition switch. Before you attempt this, ensure that the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. Many modern cars have a system that can lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park, which can prevent the key from turning in the ignition. If you've done all of the above and still can't get your key to rotate it is most likely that the ignition cylinder housing requires replacement. Different vehicles have different methods for replacing the ignition cylinder, so it is crucial to follow the correct procedure. Generally, this involves removing the plastic cover 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 holding it in place. After removing 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 you removed to ensure that they're identical. Once this step is complete the new ignition cylinder can be installed in the same manner that the previous one was removed. It is possible that despite our best efforts, the ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. It is recommended that if this happens, you contact a Tempe Locksmith. A locksmith can assist you choose the right replacement and then install it properly so that your car can start again.