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 have your original key. It gets triggered when you use the wheel to provide support while getting in or out of your vehicle or even touch it when you are parked.

It can also be triggered by vandalism or theft. You can fix car ignition your key if you are having difficulty turning it.

The ignition switch

The ignition key replacement switch is a vital component of your car. It's among the first parts that you switch on when you start your car and also powers most other systems. When it fails it can lead to many issues.

Wear and tear is the primary reason for an ignition switch breaking down. This can happen with time, particularly when your keychain is being weighed down by other items. You can prevent this from happening by having a separate set of keys for your home and car, and by decreasing the weight of your keychain. Another reason is mechanical problems. It may be difficult to insert or remove the key if the cylinder for ignition is misaligned. If this is the situation you'll have to replace it.

In addition to these mechanical problems the ignition switch could also be failing because of an electrical issue. In this instance, you might notice smoke or a burning smell when you try to start your car. If this happens it is important to get it replaced in the earliest time possible to prevent further damage.

Another reason why you may not be able to start your car ignition switch is because the ignition switch is locked in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents someone from taking your car keys and then starting it. Usually, this means you've put too much pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't functioning correctly.

In this instance you can apply lubrication to the lock to see if it improves. This will remove any dirt particles that may be preventing the key from turning, so you can try again. You can also apply an lubricant made of silicone, which can help prevent dirt from building up inside the lock. If you are still having trouble, try wiggling your key before inserting it again.

The lock cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder of a car is the mechanical component in which keys are placed to allow the vehicle to start the car. The pins inside the cylinder can move up and down permitting the key to enter and turn. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers could wear out or even break and prevent the key from turning. The cylinder could eventually fail and cause a dead Car ignition Lock battery and other problems.

The most well-known type is the cylindrical lock. The outer shell features a cylindrical hole that houses the plug. The shell that covers the outer is typically constructed of steel, while the plug is usually made of brass or bronze. Cylinder locks are available with a variety of different pins, which allow them to lock or unlock in various ways. Certain cylinder locks come with additional security features, such as snap-line pins or additional pins to protect against lock bumping.

While it is possible to finesse the cylinder of a lock that is difficult to work with graphite or WD-40, these methods aren't likely to work for long. A more reliable solution is to purchase a new ignition lock cylinder. It is as simple as taking off the old cylinder of your ignition lock from your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. A new cylinder may require new keys.

The cost of replacing an ignition lock cylinder is typically less than $300 for the standard systems. Some vehicles have electronic locks that are more expensive to change. It is essential that the procedure for replacing the ignition cylinder is done by an accredited professional. This is due to removing components that could affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags).

In order to replace the battery for the replacement, you'll have to disconnect the battery cable with negative charge. This is important to prevent an accidental airbag deployment. It is also important to disable the airbag system if your car is equipped with one. You must follow all factory instructions. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder, you'll need to reset your anti-theft code. This will prevent your car from being stolen and could require the use of a special tool.

The key

If you turn your ignition key but it doesn't start your car, this could indicate that your ignition lock isn’t working. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the correct key is used to start your car. It's a small mechanical part that is used in conjunction with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to start. Over time the key could wear out or damage the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder. This could cause it to be difficult to turn.

While the replacement of a key is often the best option, you can also try some basic troubleshooting to help solve the ignition issue in your car at home. Make sure that your key is in its correct position and that the indicator is pointing to the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If it's not, that could stop the engine from being started and a quick visit with your dealer may be required to determine the root of the problem.

Another option is to move the key in the ignition switch, but be careful not to apply too much force or pressure. This can free up any tiny damage to the wafer tumblers, which is preventing it from turning. If this doesn't work, you can try lubricating it using a silicone lubricant.

You can purchase these kinds of fluids at the local auto parts retailer, but you must make sure you use a quality one that prevents dirt from accumulating and causing problems in the future. If all else fails you must remove the ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a simple procedure that a majority of DIYers can follow with the aid of online guides or an auto repair manual.

If you've been recently arrested for the crime of DUI or DWI the state you live in may require you to install an ignition interlock device (IID). These devices are intended to stop drunk driving by making drivers breathe into a tube prior to getting their car started. The device must be installed only by a provider certified, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.

The wiring

In many vehicles the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected with wires. When you insert the key into the ignition, current runs through these wires to trigger all electrical systems in your vehicle. If the electrical system isn't functioning or the switch is stuck in the on position, it could be due to a wire being disconnected. If you are unable to identify the problem, it may be necessary to replace the ignition switch or cylinder.

Ignition interlock devices

A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that must be installed in your vehicle in order to meet a legal or criminal obligation. Ignition interlocks detect alcohol use disorder in drivers by measuring their breath 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 limit allowed, a warning horn will sound and the lights will flash so that the vehicle can be stopped and the driver may take a second test.

Ignition Interlocks are a great option for people suffering from an alcohol use disorder, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior starting the vehicle. They are small and discrete and are easily hidden away from view to avoid drawing attention. The cost of the ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They are not bought in bulk.

The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder are connected to control all the electrical components in your vehicle. The ignition will not work when one of these components are damaged or worn. If you are experiencing any of these problems it is essential to fix them as soon as you can.

If you are unable to get your car ignition key replacement to start, try putting the key in Park or neutral, and then turning it. If this doesn't work, then you might need to disconnect the battery and remove the airbag to get access to the ignition switch. This is often a simple task, but it will 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 free.