Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a safety feature that prevents you from getting your car started unless you have the original key. It is activated by using the steering wheel to support you when getting into or out of your car, or touching it while you are parked.
It could also be caused by vandalism or theft. You can fix your key if you're having trouble turning it.
The ignition switch is the ignition
The ignition switch is a vital element of your vehicle. It's among the first things that you switch on when you start your car, and it also activates the majority of other systems. If it fails to function, it can be a major problem.
The main reason the ignition switch in your car could fail is because of wear and wear and tear. This is a possibility over time, especially when you have a lot of other things on your keychain which weigh it down. You can avoid this by using a separate key for your house and car, and by reducing weight on your keys. Mechanical issues are another reason. If the ignition cylinder is incorrectly aligned, it will make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this is the case you'll have to get it replaced.
In addition to these mechanical problems the ignition switch could also be failing because of an electrical issue. In this case you may smell smoke or a burning odor when you try to start your vehicle. It is essential to replace it as soon as you can to prevent any further damage.
Another reason why you may not be able to start your car is that the ignition switch is locked in the ON position. This is a safety feature that prevents anyone from taking the car key and starting it. This typically means that you are applying too much pressure on the ignition switch, or that your key doesn't work properly.
You can try lubricating your lock in the second case to see if that aids. This will help to remove any dirt particles that may hinder the key from turning, so you can try again. You can also use a silicone-based grease to stop dirt from accumulating in the lock. If auto key stuck in ignition struggling trying to move your key before inserting it once again.
The lock cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder of a car is the part that has a mechanical structure that keys are inserted in order to start the vehicle. The pins inside the cylinder move up and down, allowing the key to be inserted and turned. The pins are held in place by wafer tumblers. Over time, the tumblers may fail or break and prevent the key from turning. The cylinder could eventually fail which could result in the battery of your car dying and other issues.
The most popular type is the cylinder lock. They consist of an outer shell and an opening that is cylindrical, inside which the plug is housed. The shell that covers the outside of the cylinder lock is usually constructed of steel. The plug is typically bronze or brass. Cylinder locks are available with a range of pins, which permit them to lock or unlock in multiple ways. Some come with additional security features, such as a snap line or additional pins that guard against bumping into locks and other forms of pick-and-pick.
It is possible to refine a tough lock using graphite, but these solutions don't usually work for very long. A more reliable solution is to get a new ignition lock cylinder. You can do this by taking the old cylinder of your ignition lock from your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. New keys are required to replace the cylinder.
Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more costly to replace. It is essential that the procedure for replacing the ignition cylinder is done by an accredited professional. This is because it involves removing components that could interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
It is necessary to disconnect the negative battery cables before replacing the battery. This is essential to avoid an accidental airbag deployment. You'll also want to turn off the airbag system, if it is equipped with one. You must follow all factory instructions. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder you'll need to reset the anti-theft code. This will protect your vehicle from being stolen, and it may require the use of a special tool.
The key
If your key turns but fails to start the vehicle it could be an indication that your ignition lock isn't working. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the right key is used to start your car. It's a mechanical component that is connected to an electrical component to "read" anti-theft code to allow your vehicle to begin. In time the key may damage or wear out the wafer tumblers inside the lock cylinder, making it difficult to turn.
You can solve the ignition issue in your car by using some basic troubleshooting techniques. First, check that your key is in the correct position in the shifter, and that the indicator on the shifter is directed at the P (Park) slot. If not, it could stop the car from starting. You may need to consult with your dealer to determine what's causing the problem.
Another option is to jiggle the the ignition switch, but be cautious not to apply too much pressure or force. This will help remove any small damage to the tumblings of the wafer which is preventing it from rotating. If this doesn't work then you could try lubricating the wafer with the use of a silicone lubricant.
You can find these types of fluids at the local auto parts store, but you should also be sure to use the best one that will stop dirt from building up and causing problems in the future. If nothing else works then you'll have to take out the cylinder for ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a straightforward procedure that DIYers can do with the help of online guides or auto repair manuals.
If you have been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to stop drunk driving by requiring the driver to breathe into a tube before they can begin their vehicle. The device should be installed only by a service provider that is certified, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many automobiles the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected via wires. When you insert your key into the ignition, current runs through these wires, triggering the electrical systems of your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't working or the switch isn't turning on, it could be that the wire is disconnected. If you can't find the problem, it may be necessary to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder.
Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a vehicle breathalyzer that must be installed in your car as part of a criminal penalty or a legal obligation. Ignition interlocks are made to detect alcohol use disorders by analyzing the breath of a driver prior to when the engine of the vehicle can be started. If the IID detects that the driver's alcohol content is higher than the allowed limit the horn will sound, and/or the lights will flash to indicate that the vehicle is stopped and the driver may take a second test.
Ignition Interlocks are a wonderful option for people suffering from an alcohol dependence disorder, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece before beginning the vehicle. They are small, discrete and can be concealed to avoid attracting attention. Interlocks for ignition are leaseable, not bought outright and cost is between $60 and $90 per month.
The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are connected to control all of the electrical components in your car. The ignition will not work when one of these components are damaged or worn. If you're experiencing one of these issues, it's essential to have them fixed in the shortest time possible.
If you can't get your vehicle to start, try placing the key in Park or neutral and then turning it. If this doesn't work you may need to remove the airbag and disconnect the battery to access the ignition switch. This is often a simple task, but it may require an instrument to pull the steering wheel or a GM key removal kit and both can be rented from AutoZone's loan-a tool program for no cost.