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Why is My Car Ignition Locked? There are several reasons why your ignition in your car may be locked. The key could be dirty or has a broken wafer in it. You can fix this by sliding the key into and out of the cylinder a few times. The pins of the lock cylinder may also be stuck. You can make use of a small tack hammer to gently tap on the cylinder to loosen the pins. Check the Battery If your car is in Park or neutral, but won't turn on when you insert the key into the ignition, there could be a problem with the shifter switch on the transmission. It is possible to fix the issue by moving the gear shifter up or down to put the vehicle into gear. If it is still not turning, the issue could be related to the neutral safety switch or transmission shifter cable. A mechanic or local auto locksmith can fix 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 grease can address this problem, allowing the wafers to slide into the proper position. The key can become clogged by lint from your pockets and adhesive from tape that is used to keep packages in place. This prevents the key from sliding into the ignition. You can clean the key using a cloth, or a cleaner such as Triflow to fix this problem. You could also try a spare key to determine if the issue is the key or ignition. You can also tap the key with a small hammer while it's in the ignition. This will cause a slight vibration that may be enough to loosen the wafers within the ignition, allowing them to slide into position. You must be cautious not to damage either the ignition cylinder or the key. If none of the above work, you should consult a locksmith for help in figuring it out. The key could be damaged in the cylinder of ignition or it could be time to replace it completely. Locksmiths can make an alternate key if the problem is with the key. If the problem is with the ignition cylinder, your car will need to be brought to a repair shop to have it repaired. These issues are usually simple to fix. Check key stuck in ignition Steering Wheel A common issue that can prevent the ignition from turning is the steering wheel being locked. It can happen if an individual driver is unintentionally engaged with the steering wheel when they exit or get into the vehicle. This usually happens by pulling the wheel while being able to hold it against their body. It can also happen when a passenger in the back seat accidentally engages it as they exit the car. Fortunately, this is an easy fix and does not require a trip to an expert locksmith or mechanic. First, ensure that the gear shift is in either Park or neutral. If it's not then gently pull or push the gear shifter until it moves to one of these positions. It's also crucial to press the brake 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 engaged with the lock cylinder. A small “Lock label can be found in the lower portion the ignition circle. You can easily disengage this by gently jiggling or pulling the keys with moderate force. It is essential not to apply too much pressure since it could damage the key, or break a wafer in the lock cylinder. A spare key can also be used to unengage the lock. This may indicate that the original key is worn out and is no more able to engage the wafers that make up the lock cylinder. A professional from Karl Chevrolet Webster City can make a new key if this is the case. If the key still doesn't engage after spraying penetrating lubricant, it may help. Simply spray a tiny amount of oil around the ignition and keyhole, then tap or jiggle it until it starts to engage. If this does not work, you'll likely have to visit an expert at your local auto dealership. They'll be able to provide you with a replacement key, and will also replace the ignition cylinder should it be necessary. Check the Key If you are unable get your key to turn on the ignition, it is possible that something is wrong with your key. You can try getting rid of any foreign material that is on the key (lint, adhesive from packing tape, etc). You could also try rubbing alcohol on the key or Goo Gone to see if it aids. If the pins within the lock aren't moving properly when you insert your key, it is possible that they are stuck. If you have an extra key that you want to test, you can try placing it in the ignition, then gently sliding it back out. You should be in a position to feel and hear the pins moving inside. If not, you could apply lubrication to the pins using graphite powder. You can buy graphite in small tubes that can be applied directly to the keyhole. This should help the pins to slide into position when you insert the key and also prevent them from becoming stuck. It could be that your key has become worn out or damaged and isn't able to connect with the pins in the ignition cylinder. This can cause the cylinder of ignition to not to turn, preventing you from starting your vehicle. In this situation you'll have to take your car to an auto repair shop or locksmith for service. If you can turn your car with a spare key and you have ruled out any problems with the steering wheel or battery, it is possible that the ignition cylinder is worn out. Try to open the lock with a blunt screwdriver or a handle of the hammer. Don't use the head. Sometimes, gently tapping the cylinder can free it up and allow you to turn your car key. 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 slides in and out of place when inserted. Often times, it gets filled with debris or is the result of wear and wear and tear. You can spray some silicon lock lubricant in the ignition. You can also use a small hammer to gently tap the interior of the cylinder for ignition, in an effort 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 try this, make sure that the gearbox of your car is in neutral or park. Many newer cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel if it is not in neutral or park. This could prevent the ignition key from being turned. If you have done all of this and still 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. Generally, this means taking off the plastic cover that is placed over the steering column and ignition assembly. To remove it, you'll have to adjust the tilt-wheel to its lowest position. Then unscrew any fasteners that are holding it in the position. After the cover has been removed, you'll have to take the old ignition cylinder off the steering column. It is then necessary to compare the new one you have purchased with the original one to ensure that they are a perfect match. After this, you can install the new ignition cylinder exactly the same way that you did with the old one. It is possible that, despite our best efforts, an ignition may become damaged and require to be replaced. If this happens, it is recommended that you contact a Tempe Locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can assist you in selecting the right replacement and then install it correctly, so that your car will be able to start up again.