Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a safety feature that prevents you from starting your car unless you have the original key. It activates when you use the wheel to provide support while getting out or in your vehicle or even touch it while parked.
It can also be triggered by vandalism or theft. You can repair your key if it is having difficulty turning it.
The ignition switch
The ignition switch is a small part of your car that is essential for driving it. It is one of the first components you turn on when you start your car and also triggers most other systems. When it fails it could cause many issues.
Wear and tear is the main reason for a car ignition switch failing. This could happen over time, particularly when you have other items on your keychain that weigh it down. You can prevent this from happening by using a separate keys for your home and car, and by reducing weight on your keys. Another cause is mechanical problems. It can be difficult to remove or insert the key if the ignition cylinder is not aligned properly. If this is the situation you'll have to replace it.
In addition to these mechanical issues the ignition switch could also be failing because of an electrical issue. In this instance you may smell smoke or a burning smell when you try to start your car. If you do you notice smoke or a burning smell, it's crucial to have it replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
The ignition switch may be stuck in the ON position. This is an alarm system that blocks anyone from taking out your key and starting the engine. This usually indicates that you're applying too much pressure on the ignition switch, or that your key isn't functioning properly.
Try lubricating the lock inside the second case to see if this helps. This will release any dirt particles that may hinder the key from turning, so you can try it again. You can also apply an lubricant made of silicone, which can help prevent dirt from building up within the lock. If you still have trouble try wiggle the key and then inserting it again.
The lock is a cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder in a car is the mechanical part that allows the key to be inserted to start the vehicle. The pins in the cylinder can move up and down allowing the key to move in and out. The pins are held in place by wafer tumblers. As time passes the tumblers be damaged or break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder may eventually fail completely, resulting in dead batteries and other problems with your car's starting.
Cylinder locks are the most popular type of car lock. The outer shell is made of cylindrical hole which houses the plug. The shell that covers the outside of a cylinder lock is typically made of steel. The plug is usually bronze or brass. Cylinder locks come with different pins that allow them to be locked or unlocked in a variety of ways. Certain models come with additional security measures like snap lines or other pins to guard against bumping locks and other forms of lock picking.
Although it is possible to finesse a cylinder that is difficult to lock with graphite or WD-40, these methods aren't likely to work for very long. G28CarKeys is recommended to replace the ignition lock cylinder. You can do this by removing the old cylinder for your ignition lock from your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. New keys will be needed for a new cylinder.
Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace an ignition lock cylinder. Some vehicles have electronic locks, which are more expensive to replace. The process of replacing the ignition cylinder should be carried out by a certified professional. This is due to the removal of any components that may interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
It is necessary to disconnect the negative battery cable before replacing the battery. This is important to prevent the possibility of an accident involving airbag deployment. Also, you should disable the airbag system when it's equipped with one. It is crucial to follow all instructions from the factory for repairs. You'll need to reset the anti-theft codes following installation of the new ignition lock. This will help prevent your vehicle from being taken and could require the use of a particular tool.
The key
If your key is turning but fails to start the car, it could be a sign that your ignition lock isn't working. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the correct key is used to operate your car. It's a small mechanical component that works with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to start. As time passes, the key can damage or wear out the wafer tumblers inside the lock cylinder, making it hard to turn.
While a new key is usually the best solution but you can also attempt some basic troubleshooting methods to fix your car ignition problem at home. First, make sure your key is in the right position in the shifter and that the indicator on the shifter is pointed at the P (Park) slot. If not, it could cause the vehicle to not start. You may need to speak with your dealer to determine what's the reason for the issue.
You can also turn the ignition key, but be careful not to apply too much pressure or force. This will help eliminate any minor damage to the tumblings of the wafer which is preventing it from rotating. If this doesn't work, you can try lubricating the lock cylinder with an oil based on silicone to get it moving again.
You can locate these kinds of fluids at your local auto parts retailer, but you must ensure that you are using a quality one that prevents dirt from accumulating and causing more problems in the future. If nothing else works, you will need to remove the ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a simple process that most DIYers can follow with the assistance of online guides or an auto repair manual.
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 deter drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe through a tube before they are allowed to start their car. The device is installed by an approved service provider, such as Intoxalock or LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many automobiles the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected with wires. When you insert your key into the ignition, current flows through these wires, triggering all the electrical systems in your vehicle. If the electrical system is not functioning or the switch is stuck in the on position, it could be because a wire is disconnected. If you can't determine the root of the issue you might need to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder.
Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a car breathalyzer which must be installed in your car as part of a criminal penalty or a legal requirement. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use impairment 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 exceeds the limit allowed the horn sounds and/or lights flash, so that the driver has the option of pulling over and retest.
Ignition interlocks are an excellent tool for people with drinking disorders because they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small, discrete and can be concealed to keep them from being noticed. The cost of the ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They aren't purchased for sale.
The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder work together to control all the electrical components in your vehicle. If any of these parts are damaged or worn out the ignition won't start. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it is important to get them fixed in the shortest time possible.
If you're unable to get your vehicle to start, try placing the key in Park or neutral, and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you may need to unplug the battery and take out the airbag to get access to the ignition switch. This is typically a simple job, but it might require an instrument to pull the steering wheel or a GM key removal tool, both of which can be rented through AutoZone's loan-a tool program for no cost.