Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a safety feature that stops you from starting your car unless you have your original key. It is triggered by using the steering wheel as a support when you get into or out of your car or touching it while parked.
It could also be caused through vandalism or theft. You can fix your key if you're having trouble turning it.
The ignition switch for the ignition
The ignition switch is a tiny part of your car, but it's essential for driving it. It's one of the first things you turn on when you start your car and also powers many other systems. So when car ignition key replacement doesn't work, it can be a huge issue.
Wear and tear is the main reason for a car ignition switch breaking. This is a possibility with time, especially when your keychain is weighted down by other items. You can avoid this by using a separate keys for your house and car and by reducing the weight on your keys. Mechanical issues are another reason. If the ignition cylinder becomes disaligned, it could make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this is the case you'll need it replaced.
In addition to these mechanical problems Your ignition switch could also be failing because of an electrical issue. There may be an unpleasant smell or burning when you try to start your car. It is crucial to replace it immediately to avoid further damage.
Another reason why you may be unable to start your car is due to the ignition switch is not in the ON position. This is an alarm system that blocks anyone from removing your key and re-starting the engine. This usually means that you are applying too much pressure to the ignition switch, or your key isn't functioning properly.
You can try lubricating the lock inside the second case to see if this aids. This will remove any dirt particles blocking the key's ability to turn. Then, you can try again. You can also apply silicone-based lubricant to keep dirt from building up inside the lock. If you still have trouble try wiggle the key before inserting it once more.
The lock cylinder
A car's ignition lock cylinder is the mechanical part where the key gets into the cylinder to start the vehicle. The pins within the cylinder can move up and down allowing the key to enter and turn. Also, it has wafer tumblers that hold the pins in the right position. As time passes, the tumblers may wear out or even break and prevent the key from turning. The cylinder could eventually fail, resulting in a dead battery in your car and other problems.
The most common type is the cylindrical lock. They consist of an outer shell and a cylindrical hole inside which the plug is housed. The outer shell of a cylinder lock is typically made of steel. The plug is typically bronze or brass. Cylinder locks come with different pins that permit them to be locked or unlocked in a variety of ways. Certain cylinder locks come with additional security features, such as a snap-line or additional pins to guard against bumping the lock.
It is possible to refine a tough lock with graphite, but these solutions don't usually work very long. The more reliable option is to buy a brand new ignition lock cylinder. This can be accomplished by taking the old one from your vehicle, and replacing it with a brand new one. A new cylinder will also require new keys.
The cost of replacing an ignition lock cylinder is typically less than $300 for the standard systems. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more costly to change. The process of replacing the ignition cylinder should always be carried out by a certified professional. This is due to removing components that could interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
To perform the replacement, you'll need to disconnect the negative battery cable. This is necessary to prevent the possibility of an accident involving airbag deployment. It is also recommended to disable the airbag system in the event that it has one. It is crucial to follow all instructions from the factory for repairs. You'll need reset the anti-theft code after installing the new ignition lock. This will prevent your car being taken. It may require a special tool.
The crucial
If you turn your key, but it doesn't start your car, it could indicate that the ignition lock isn't functioning properly. This tiny but crucial component ensures that only the correct key is used to start your vehicle. It's a mechanical component that works with an electrical component to "read" anti-theft codes to enable your vehicle to start. As time passes the key may cause damage or wear to the wafer tumblers inside the lock cylinder, making it hard to turn.
While replacing your key is typically the best solution but you can also try basic troubleshooting methods to solve the ignition issue in your car at home. Check that your key is in its proper place and that the indicator is pointing toward the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it could prevent the engine from starting and a quick check with your auto dealer may be necessary to find out the root of the problem.
You can also turn the ignition key, but be careful not to apply too much pressure or force. This will help to take care of any small damage to the wafer tumblings that hinders it from turning. If this doesn't work, you can try lubricating the lock cylinder with an lubricant made of silicone to get it moving again.
You can purchase these kinds of oil-based lubricants at the local auto parts store, but you should ensure that you are using a quality one that prevents dirt from building up and causing more problems in the future. If all else fails, you must take off the ignition and replace it with a brand new one. This is a relatively simple procedure that a majority of DIYers can follow with the help of online guides or an auto repair manual.
If you've been detained recently for DUI or DWI your state might require that you install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are intended to prevent drunken driving by forcing drivers to breathe into a tube prior to getting their car started. The device must be installed by a company that is that is approved, like Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many vehicles the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected by wires. When you put the key in the ignition, current flows through these wires, triggering all the electrical systems in your vehicle. If the electrical system is not working or the switch is stuck in the on position, it may be due to a wire being disconnected. If you can't determine the root of the issue it is possible to purchase a new ignition switch or the cylinder.
Interlock devices for ignition
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a vehicle breathalyzer that must be installed in your car as part of a criminal penalty or a legal requirement. Ignition interlocks are designed to detect alcohol use disorder by analyzing the breath of drivers before the engine is able to start. If the IID determines that the driver's alcohol level is higher than the permitted limit the warning horn will sound and the lights will flash so that the vehicle is stopped and the driver is able to take a second test.
Ignition Interlocks are a great option for people suffering from an alcohol-related disorder, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small and discreet 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 in bulk.
The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are connected to control all of the electrical components in your vehicle. The ignition will not function when one of these components are damaged or worn. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible.
If you can't get your car to start, try placing the key in Park or neutral, and then turning it. If this doesn't work you might need to take off the airbag and disconnect the battery to get access to your ignition switch. This is a relatively simple job that can be completed using a steering wheel puller or GM key removal tool that you can borrow from AutoZone's loan-a-tool program for free.