Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a safety feature that stops you from starting your car unless have the original key. It's activated by using the steering wheel to support you when getting into or out of your car or pressing it while parking.
It can also be triggered by acts of vandalism or theft. If you're having trouble turning your key, a few simple fixes could aid:
The ignition switch for the ignition
The ignition switch is an essential part of your car. It's one of the first things you do on your car and also activates nearly all other systems within the car as well. When it fails it can lead to many issues.
The primary reason why the ignition switch on your car can fail is due to wear and tear. This can happen over time, particularly when you have a lot of other things on your keychain that are weighing it down. You can avoid this by using a separate key for your house and car and by reducing the weight on your keys. Mechanical issues are another reason. It can be difficult to insert or remove the key if the cylinder for ignition is misaligned. If this happens you'll need to replace it.
The ignition switch may be failing due to an electrical problem. In this instance you may smell smoke or a burning odor when you try to start your car. If this happens, it's important to have it replaced in the earliest time possible to avoid further damage.
The ignition switch might be stuck in the ON position. This is an security feature that stops anyone from taking out your key and re-starting the engine. This usually indicates that you're applying too much pressure to the ignition switch, or the key isn't working properly.
In this case, you can lubricate the lock to see if it improves. lost ignition key will help to remove any dirt particles that may be preventing the key from turning, and you can try again. You can also use a silicone-based lubricant, which will keep dirt from accumulating inside the lock. If you are still having trouble try wiggle the key and inserting it again.
The lock the cylinder
A car's ignition lock cylinder is the part that mechanically controls where the key gets in to start the car. The pins in the cylinder move up and down, allowing the key to move in and out. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers may wear down or even break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder may eventually fail and cause a dead car battery and other problems.
Cylinder locks are the most common type of car lock. They comprise an outer shell with an opening that is cylindrical, inside which the plug is placed. The shell that covers the outside of a cylinder lock is generally made of steel. The plug is usually brass or bronze. Cylinder locks are available with a variety of different pins that allow them to lock or unlock in various ways. Some come with additional security features like a snap line or additional pins that guard against bumping into locks and other forms of pick-and-pick.
It is possible to fine-tune a difficult lock using graphite, but these methods don't last very long. It is better to replace the ignition lock cylinder. This can be accomplished by removing the old lock out of your car, and then replacing it with a new one. Keys will need to be replaced for a new cylinder.
The cost of replacing the ignition lock cylinder is usually less than $300 for systems that are standard. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks that are more expensive to replace. The procedure for replacing the ignition cylinder should be handled by a certified professional. This is because it involves removing components that could affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
In order to replace the battery you'll need to unplug the negative battery cable. This is necessary to prevent an airbag from being accidentally deployed. You will also want to disable any airbag system if your vehicle has one. It is essential to follow the factory instructions. You'll need to reset the anti-theft code after installing the new ignition lock. This will protect your vehicle from being stolen, and it may require the use of a special tool.
The most important
If your key turns but fails to start the vehicle it could indicate that your ignition lock isn't functioning. This is a small but crucial component that makes sure only the correct key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a mechanical part that works with an electrical component to "read" anti-theft codes to enable your vehicle to start. As time passes, the key may wear out or damage the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder. This can cause it to be difficult to turn.
While a new key is usually the best solution, you can also try basic troubleshooting to help solve the ignition issue in your car at home. First, ensure that your key is in the correct position in the shifter and that the indicator on the shifter is pointed towards the P (Park) slot. If not, it could cause the engine to stop starting and a quick visit with your dealer might be required to determine what's causing the issue.
You can also turn the ignition key, but don't apply too much force or pressure. This will remove any small damage to the tumblings of the wafer which is preventing it from rotating. If this isn't working, try making the lock cylinder lubricated with an oil based on silicone to get it moving again.
These lubricants can be purchased at your local auto parts shop. However, you should make sure to use a premium lubricant to stop dirt from building up. This could cause problems down the road. If all else fails you will need to remove the ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a relatively simple procedure that a majority of DIYers can follow with the assistance of online guides or an auto repair manual.
If you've been recently arrested for an DUI or DWI the state you live in may require you to install an ignition interlock device (IID). These devices are intended to prevent drunken driving by making drivers breathe into a tube prior to starting their car. The device is installed by a certified provider, like Intoxalock or LifeSafer.
The wiring
In a lot of vehicles the lock cylinder and ignition switch are connected with wires. When you insert your key into the ignition, a current flows through these wires and triggers all the electrical systems in your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't operating or the switch has a problem staying on it could be because the wire is disconnected. If you are unable to identify the problem, it may be necessary to replace the ignition switch or cylinder.
Interlock devices for ignition
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a vehicle breathalyzer which must be fitted in your vehicle as part of a criminal sanction or legal obligation. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath prior to when the engine of the vehicle is started. If the IID determines that the driver's BAC is higher than the limit allowed the horn sounds and/or the lights flash, indicating that the driver is able to pull over and retest.
Ignition interlocks are a great device for people suffering from alcohol use disorders, as they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior starting the vehicle. They are small and discreet which means they can be concealed from sight to avoid drawing attention. Ignition interlocks are leaseable, not bought outright and cost ranges from $60-90 a month.
The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder work together to control all the electrical components in your car. The ignition won't work when one of these components are damaged or worn. If you're experiencing any of these problems it is essential to fix them as quickly as possible.
If you're having difficulty starting your vehicle try putting the key in neutral or park before turning it. If that doesn't work, you may need to remove the airbag and then disconnect the battery to get access to the ignition switch. This is a simple job that can be done using a steering-wheel puller, or GM key removal tool, which you can rent from AutoZone’s free loan-a-tool service.