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Why is My Car Ignition Locked? There are a variety of reasons your ignition could be stuck. One reason is that the key is dirty or has a damaged wafer in it. You can fix this by sliding the key in and out of the cylinder several times. The pins of the lock cylinder could also be stuck. You can tap the cylinder gently using a small tack hammer. Check the Battery If the car is in Park or neutral but it doesn't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, it could be an issue with the shifter switch for the transmission. You can fix it by shifting the gear shifter upwards or downward to get the car into the gear. If it is still not turning, the problem could be related to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. They can be fixed by a mechanic or by an auto locksmith in your area. The ignition cylinder can also wear out. In time both the ignition and key can become worn out making them difficult to remove or insert. A lubricant such as silicon lock lubricant, can solve this issue by allowing the wafers to slide into place. The filth from your pockets and adhesive from the tape that holds packages together can also build on the key, which prevents it from being able to slide into the ignition. To fix this issue you can try cleaning the keys with the help of a cloth or a cleaner, like Triflow. You should also use a spare key to determine if the issue is with the ignition or the ignition. When the key is in ignition, you can tap it with a an hammer that is small. This will cause a small vibration, which may be enough to loosen the ignition's wafers and allow them to slide in the right position. Be careful not to scratch the ignition cylinder or the key. If all of the above options fail, it's probably time to contact a locksmith or automotive mechanic to examine the issue. It could be that the key has been damaged in the ignition, or it may be time to replace the entire thing. If the problem is with the key the locksmith will be able to create a new key for you. If the issue is related to the ignition cylinder, your car must be taken to a repair shop in order to have it repaired. These issues are generally simple to solve. 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 enter the vehicle. This is typically caused by yanking the wheel while holding it against their body. It could also happen if a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they climb out of the car. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, make sure that the gear shift is either 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's also important to press the brake button or activate the handbrake prior to attempting to turn the key. If the wheel isn't locked taking a look at the steering column will reveal whether the key has been engaged with the lock. This is typically indicated by a small “Lock” label in the lower portion of the ignition circle. It is possible to disengage the lock by gently jiggling the key or pulling on it with moderate force. It is crucial not to use too much pressure as this could cause damage to the key or damage a wafer inside the lock cylinder. Another option is using a spare key to see if it can disengage the lock. This could indicate that the original key is worn out and no more able to engage the wafers inside the lock cylinder. ignition and key replacement at Karl Chevrolet Webster City can create a new key in the event that this is the case. If the key doesn't engage after spraying the penetrating lubricant it might help. Apply a small amount around the ignition, and inserted keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to work. If this doesn't help you, you might need to seek out a specialist at your local car dealership. They will be able to give you a new key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder, if necessary. Check the Key It could be that your key may be damaged if it will not turn on. You can get rid of 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 it aids. If the pins inside the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it's possible that they are stuck. You can test a spare key by gently removing it of the ignition once you have put it in. You should be capable of hearing and feeling the pins moving inside. If you can't hear or feel any movement, you could lubricate them with graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This will allow the pins to slide into place when you insert the key, and will prevent them from becoming stuck. It is possible that your key has worn out or damaged and isn't able to work with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to stop turning, which will prevent you from starting your car. If this happens you'll need to take your car to an auto locksmith or repair shop for assistance. If you're able to turn the vehicle with a spare key and you've ruled out issues with the steering wheel or battery it could be because the ignition cylinder is worn out. You can attempt to loosen the lock cylinder by using the sharp end of a screwdriver or handle of an hammer (not the head). Gently tapping on the cylinder will often free it which allows you to turn your key and start your vehicle. If this is not working then you'll need to have the lock cylinder replaced by a mechanic. Check the Ignition Socket The ignition socket is the place where your key slides in and out when inserted. It could get blocked with debris, or simply wear and tear. You can squirt some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition. You can also make use of a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the ignition cylinder, in an effort to loosen or reset the pins that could be out of alignment. Be very careful to not overdo it or you may cause severe damage to the ignition switch. Before you try this, make sure your car's gearbox is set to neutral or park. Many newer cars have an option to lock the steering wheel when it is not in neutral or park, which can prevent the key from turning into the ignition. If you've tried all of these steps and your key still won't turn, it's possible that the ignition housing has to be replaced. Different vehicles have different procedures for replacing the ignition cylinder, therefore it is essential to follow the correct procedures. Generally speaking, this involves removing the plastic cover that covers the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove this cover, you'll need to first adjust the tilt-wheel to the lowest position and then remove any fasteners that are holding it in place. After removing the cover you'll need to remove the old ignition cylinder from the steering column. It is then essential to check the new one you bought with the previous one to make sure they're the same. Once this is done, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in the same way that the old one was removed. Sometimes, despite all of our best efforts, the ignition can become damaged and require replacement. If this happens, it is recommended to contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith will assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly, so that your car will be able to start up again.