Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
An ignition lock is a security device that stops your car from starting until you have the original key. It gets triggered when you use the wheel for support when you get into or out of your vehicle or touch it when you are parked.
It can be triggered also through theft or vandalism. If you're having difficulty turning your key, a few easy solutions could assist:
The ignition switch for the ignition
The ignition switch is an essential component of your car. It's among the first things you do on your car and also activates nearly all the other systems in the car too. If it's not working, it can cause a lot of problems.
The main reason the ignition switch on your car can fail is due to wear and tear. This can happen over time, particularly when you have other items on your keychain which weigh it down. It is possible to avoid this by using a separate keys for your house and car and by reducing the weight on your keys. The other cause is mechanical problems. It can be difficult to remove or insert the key if the cylinder for ignition is not aligned correctly. If this happens you'll have to replace it.
The ignition switch may be failing due to an electrical issue. You might notice a burning or smokey smell when you try to start your car. If you do, it's important to have it replaced 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 locked in the ON position. This is an alarm system that blocks anyone from taking your key and then starting the engine. Usually, this means you have too much pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't working properly.
You can try lubricating your lock in the second case to see if this helps. This will remove any dirt particles blocking the key's ability to turn. Then try again. You can also try an lubricant made of silicone, which will help to prevent dirt from building up within the lock. If you're struggling trying to move your key and inserting it once again.
The lock cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder of a car is the mechanical component where the key gets in to start the car. The pins inside the cylinder move up and down, permitting the key to move in and out. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers could wear out or even break, preventing the key from turning. In the end, the cylinder could fail completely, leading to an unresponsive battery and other issues in the vehicle's starting.
Cylinder locks are the most common type of car lock. The outer shell is made of cylindrical hole that houses the plug. The shell that covers the outside of a cylinder lock is typically constructed of steel. The plug is often brass or bronze. Cylinder locks are equipped with various pins that permit them to be locked or unlocked in various ways. Some cylinder locks have additional security measures, like a snap-line or additional pins to protect against bumping the lock.
It is possible to fine-tune a difficult lock using graphite, however these methods don't last for very long. It is recommended to replace the ignition lock cylinder. This can be accomplished by removing the old lock from your vehicle, and then replacing it with a brand new one. A new cylinder will require new keys.
The cost of replacing an ignition lock cylinder is usually less than $300 for standard systems. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks, which are more expensive to replace. The procedure to replace the ignition cylinder should be carried out by an authorized professional. This is because it involves the removal of any components that may affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
In order to replace the battery, you'll need to disconnect the battery cable that is negative. This is necessary to prevent the airbag from accidentally being deployed. You will also want to turn off any airbag system if your vehicle is equipped with one. It is essential to follow all instructions for repair by the manufacturer. You'll need to reset the anti-theft codes after installing the new ignition lock. This will protect your car from being stolen, and it may require the use of a specific tool.
The most important
If your key turns but isn't able to start your car it could indicate 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 part that works with an electrical component to "read" anti-theft coding to enable your vehicle to start. Over time the key may cause damage or wear on the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder, making it hard to turn.
You can fix your car's ignition problem with a few simple troubleshooting techniques. First, make sure your key is in the proper position in the shifter, and that the indicator on the shifter is pointed at the P (Park) slot. If it's not, that could cause the engine to stop being started, and a quick check with your dealer may be required to determine what's causing the issue.
Another step you can take is to move the the ignition switch, but be cautious not to apply too much pressure or force. This will allow for the release of any small damage to the wafer tumblers that's hindering it from turning. If this doesn't work, you can try applying lubricant to the lock cylinder using an lubricant made of silicone to get it moving again.
These lubricants can be found at the local auto parts shop. However, you should use a high-quality lubricant to prevent dirt from accumulating. G28 Car Keys can cause further 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 fairly simple procedure that a majority of DIYers can follow with the help 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 prevent drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube prior to they can start their car. The device should be installed by a company that is certified, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In a lot of vehicles the lock cylinder as well as the ignition switch are connected via wires. When you insert your key into the ignition the current flows through these wires and activates all the electrical systems in your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't operating or the switch isn't turning on, it could be that the wire has been cut off. If you cannot find the root of the issue it is possible to get a new ignition switch or the cylinder.
Interlock devices for ignition
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a car breathalyzer which must be installed in your car as part of a criminal penalty or legal requirement. Ignition interlocks are made to detect alcohol use disorders by measuring the breath of a driver prior to when the engine of the vehicle can be started. If the IID determines the driver's alcohol consumption is greater than the limit allowed the horn will sound, and/or the lights will flash to indicate that the vehicle is stopped and the driver can take a second test.
Ignition interlocks are an excellent option for those suffering from drinking disorders because they require that the user blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small and discreet, so they can be easily hidden away from the view of others to avoid attracting attention. Interlocks for ignition are leaseable, not bought outright, and the cost is between $60 and $90 per month.
The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder regulate all electrical components inside your vehicle. The ignition won't work when one of these components are damaged or worn. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is important to get them fixed as soon as you can.
If you are having trouble starting your vehicle Try putting the key into neutral or park before turning it. If this doesn't work you might have to remove the airbag and disconnect the battery to gain access to the ignition switch. This is usually a straightforward task, but it will 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.