Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a security feature that prevents you from getting your car started unless you possess the original key. It's activated by using the steering wheel as a support when you get into or out of your car or touching it while you are parked.
It could also be caused through vandalism or theft. If you're having difficulty turning your key, a few simple fixes could aid:
The ignition switch is the ignition
The ignition switch is a tiny piece of your car that's essential for driving it. It's among the first things you do on your vehicle and also activates nearly all other systems within the car as well. When it fails it could cause many issues.
The primary reason why your car ignition switch might fail is because of wear and tear. It can happen over time, particularly when your keychain is being weighed down by other items. You can prevent this from happening by using a separate keys for your home and car, and by reducing weight on your keys. The other cause is mechanical issues. If the ignition cylinder is disaligned, it could make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this is the situation you'll have to replace it.
Your ignition switch could also be malfunctioning due to an electrical problem. You might notice an unpleasant smell or burning when you try to start your vehicle. If you do it is important to get it repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Another reason why you may not be able to start your car is that the ignition switch is not in the ON position. This is a security feature that stops someone from removing your car key and re-starting it. Typically, a knockout post means that there is too much pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't functioning properly.
You can try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if this aids. This will get rid of any dirt particles hindering the key from turning. Then, you can try again. You can also use a silicone-based grease to stop dirt from accumulating inside the lock. If you are still having trouble trying to move your key before inserting it once again.
The lock the cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder of automobiles is the mechanical component that the key is inserted in order to start the car. 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 become worn out or even break, preventing the key from turning. In the end, the cylinder could fail completely, causing a dead battery and other problems with your car's starting.
Cylinder locks are the most common type of car lock. They are made up of an outer shell and a cylindrical hole in which the plug is housed. The outer shell is usually made of steel, whereas the plug is often made of brass or bronze. Cylinder locks are equipped with various pins that allow them to be locked or unlocked in various ways. Some have extra security measures like snap lines or additional pins that guard against bumping into locks and other types of lock picking.
It is possible to tweak a difficult lock using graphite, however these solutions don't usually work for very long. The more reliable option is to purchase a new ignition lock cylinder. It is as simple as taking the old ignition lock cylinder from your car and replacing it with a new one. New keys are required to replace the cylinder.
Standard systems typically cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Some vehicles have electronic locks, which are more expensive to replace. It is important that the procedure to replace an ignition cylinder be performed by an accredited professional. This is because the procedure involves removing components that could interfere with supplemental restraint systems (airbags).
You'll need to unplug the negative battery cables before you replace the battery. This is necessary to prevent an accidental airbag deployment. It is also recommended to disable the airbag system if your vehicle has one. It is crucial to follow all instructions from the factory for repairs. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder you'll have 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 crucial
If you turn your ignition key but it fails to start your car, it could be a sign that the ignition lock isn't working. It's a minor but vital component that ensures only the correct key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a small mechanical part that is used in conjunction with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to be started. Over time the key can wear out or cause damage to the wafer tumblers inside the lock cylinder. This can make it difficult to turn.
You can solve the ignition issue in your car by employing a few basic troubleshooting techniques. Make sure your key is in the proper place and that the indicator is pointed to the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it could prevent the engine from being started, and a quick check with your auto dealer may be necessary to find out what's causing the issue.
Another method is to jiggle the the ignition switch, but take care not to apply too much pressure or force. This could cause slight destruction to the wafer tumblers which is stopping it from turning. If this doesn't help, you can try lubricating the wafer with the use of a silicone lubricant.
These lubricants can be purchased at your local auto parts shop. However, you should apply a high-quality lubricant in order to prevent dirt from accumulating. This could cause issues down the road. If nothing else works, you will need to remove the ignition and replace it with a new one. This is an easy procedure that DIYers can do with the help of online guides or auto repair manuals.
If you've been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require that you install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to prevent drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube before they can start their car. The device is installed only by a service provider that is approved, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many vehicles, the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected by wires. When you insert your key into the ignition and a current is emitted through these wires, and it activates all of the electrical systems in your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't working or the switch isn't turning on, it could be that the wire has been cut off. If you are unable to identify the problem, it may be necessary to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder.
Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a car breathalyzer that must be installed in your car as part of a criminal sanctions or legal obligation. Ignition interlocks are designed to detect alcohol-related disorders by measuring the breath of a driver prior to when the vehicle's engine is able to start. If the IID determines that the driver's BAC exceeds the allowed limit, the horn will sound and/or flash lights, so that the driver has the option of pulling over and test again.
Ignition interlocks are a great option for those suffering from drinking disorders because they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small and subtle which means they can be concealed away from the view of others to avoid attracting attention. Ignition interlocks are leased, not purchased outright and cost ranges from $60-90 a month.
The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are the main electrical components that control your vehicle. The ignition will not work if any of these components is damaged or worn. If you're experiencing any of these issues it is crucial to get them fixed in the shortest time possible.
If you are unable to get your vehicle to start, try putting the key in neutral or Park and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you might need to take off the airbag and then disconnect the battery to get access to your ignition switch. This is often a simple task, but it may require a steering wheel puller or a GM key removal kit and both can be rented from AutoZone's loan-a-tool service for free.