Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a safety feature that prevents you from getting your car started unless you have the original key. It is triggered by using the steering wheel as a support when getting into or out of your car or touching it while you are parked.
It can be triggered also by vandalism or theft. If you're having difficulty turning your key, these simple fixes may help:
The ignition switch
The ignition switch is a small part of your car, but it's essential to drive it. It's one of the first things you turn on when you start your car and also triggers the majority of other systems. If it's not working it could cause many issues.
The primary reason why the ignition switch in your car could fail is due to wear and wear and tear. This is a possibility with time, particularly when your keychain is weighted down by extra items. You can avoid this by using a separate key for your car and house, and by reducing weight on your keys. Another reason is mechanical problems. If the ignition cylinder gets disaligned, it could make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this is the case you'll have to get it replaced.
Your ignition switch could also be failing due to an electrical problem. In this scenario you may smell smoke or a burning odor when you attempt to start your car. If you do it is important to get it repaired in the earliest time possible to avoid further damage.
The ignition switch may be stuck in the ON position. This is a safety feature that prevents anyone from removing your car key and starting it. This usually means that you are applying too much pressure to the ignition switch, or the key isn't working properly.
In the latter case it is possible to lubricate the lock to see if it improves. This will release any dirt particles that may hinder the key from turning, so you can try it again. You can also use a silicone-based grease to stop dirt from accumulating in the lock. If you are still having trouble, try wiggling the key and inserting it again.
The lock cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder of a car is the mechanical part in which keys are put to start the vehicle. The pins in the cylinder move upwards and downwards, permitting the key to move in and out. The pins are held in place by wafer tumblers. Over time, the tumblers may wear out or even break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder may fail and cause a dead car battery and other problems.
The most well-known type is the cylinder lock. The outer shell has a cylindrical hole which houses the plug. The outer shell is usually made of steel, while the plug is often constructed of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks are available with a variety of different pins, which allow them to lock or unlock in multiple ways. Certain cylinder locks come with additional security measures, like snap-line pins or other pins to guard against bumping of the lock.
It is possible to refine a tough lock with graphite, but these solutions don't usually work very long. A more reliable solution is to buy a brand new ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by removing the old lock from your vehicle, and then replacing it with a brand new one. A new cylinder may require new keys.
Standard systems typically cost less than $300 to replace an ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more expensive to replace. The process of replacing the ignition cylinder must be handled by an authorized 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 required to prevent an airbag from being accidentally deployed. Also, you should turn off the airbag system, if it is equipped with one. Follow ignition lock repair services from the factory. You'll need to reset the anti-theft code after installing the new ignition lock. This will help prevent your vehicle from being taken and may require the use of a special tool.
The most important
If you turn your ignition key but it fails to start your car, this could be a sign that your ignition lock isn’t functioning properly. This small but vital part ensures that only the right key is used to start your car. It's a mechanical part that is connected to an electrical component to "read" anti-theft codes to enable your vehicle to start. Over time the key may damage or wear out the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder, which makes it difficult to turn.
While the replacement of a key is often the best solution however, you can also try basic troubleshooting techniques to fix your car ignition problem at home. Make sure that your key is in its correct position and that the indicator is pointing toward the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If it's not, that could prevent the engine from beginning and a quick visit with your dealer may be required to determine what's causing the issue.
You can also play with the ignition key, but be careful not to apply too much force or pressure. This will take care of any small damage to the tumblings of the wafer which hinders it from turning. If this fails, you can try making the lock cylinder lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant to get it moving again.
You can locate these kinds of fluids at your local auto parts store, but ensure that you are using the best one that will stop dirt from accumulating and causing problems in the future. If all else fails you must take off the ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a easy process that many DIYers can follow with the aid of online guides or an auto repair manual.
If you've been recently arrested for a DUI or DWI or DWI, your state 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 starting their car. The device should be installed by a company that is certified, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many vehicles the lock cylinder as well as the ignition switch are connected by wires. When you insert your key into the ignition, current runs through these wires, triggering all electrical systems in your vehicle. If the electrical system is not functioning or the switch is stuck in the on position, it may be due to a wire that is disconnected. If you're unable to pinpoint the problem, it may be necessary to replace the ignition switch or cylinder.
Interlocks for ignition devices
A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that has to be installed into your vehicle to comply with a legal or criminal requirement. Ignition interlocks can detect alcohol-related disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath prior to when the engine of the vehicle can be started. If the IID determines the driver's alcohol content is higher than the permitted limit the alarm will sound, and/or the lights will flash to indicate that the vehicle can be stopped and the driver can take a second test.
Ignition Interlocks are a wonderful tool for those suffering from an alcohol dependence disorder, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to getting the car started. They are small, discreet and can be concealed to keep them from being noticed. The cost of ignition interlocks ranges from $60-90 per month. They aren't purchased for sale.
The ignition switch and ignition cylinder work together to regulate all of the electrical parts in your car. The ignition won't work when one of these components is damaged or worn. If you are experiencing any of these problems it is crucial to get them fixed as soon as you can.
If you can't get your vehicle to start, try placing the key in neutral or Park and then turning it. If this doesn't work, you might have to remove the airbag, and then disconnect the battery to gain access to the ignition switch. This is usually a straightforward job, but it might require the use of a steering wheel puller or a GM key removal tool and both are available for rental through AutoZone's loan-a-tool program for free.