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 the original key. It is activated when you use the wheel to provide assistance when getting out or in your vehicle, or when you touch it when parked.
It can also be caused by theft or vandalism. You can fix your key if you're having trouble turning it.
The ignition switch
The ignition switch is a vital part of your vehicle. does a new ignition switch require a new key 's among the first things you turn on when you start your car and also triggers most other systems. If it fails to function it could be a major issue.
Wear and tear is the main cause of a car ignition switch breaking down. This is a possibility with time, particularly when your keychain is being weighed down by additional items. You can prevent this from happening by having a separate set of keys for your house and car, as well as by decreasing the weight of your keychain. Another cause is mechanical issues. If the ignition cylinder gets incorrectly aligned, it will make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this happens, you will need to replace it.
In addition to these mechanical issues the ignition switch could be failing due to an electrical issue. You may notice a burning or smokey smell when you attempt to start your car. It is crucial to replace it as soon as you can to avoid further damage.
Another reason why you may not be able to start your car is due to the ignition switch is stuck in the ON position. This is an security feature that stops anyone from taking your key and re-starting the engine. Typically, this means you've put too high pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't functioning correctly.
In this case it is possible to lubricate the lock to see if it improves. This will remove any dirt particles that are hindering the key from turning. Then, you can try again. You can also apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help to stop dirt from building up within the lock. If you're still having issues try wiggle the key before inserting it once more.
The lock is a cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder of a car is the part that has a mechanical structure that keys are inserted in order to start the car. The pins within the cylinder move up and down, permitting the key to enter and turn. It also has wafer tumblers that hold the pins in the right position. Over time the tumblers could wear out or even break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder may eventually fail completely, causing dead batteries and other issues with the car's start.
The most common type is the cylinder lock. The outer shell is made of cylindrical hole which houses the plug. The outer shell is usually constructed of steel, while the plug is often made of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks are equipped with various pins that allow them to be locked or unlocked in various ways. Certain cylinder locks include additional security measures such as a snap-line or additional pins to protect against bumping the lock.
It is possible to refine a tough lock using graphite, but these solutions don't usually work for very long. The more reliable option is to get a new ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by removing the old lock out of your vehicle and replacing it with a brand new one. Keys will need to be replaced for a new cylinder.
Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Some vehicles have electronic locks that are more expensive to change. The procedure for replacing the ignition cylinder should be handled by an experienced professional certified. This is because it involves removal of components that could interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
You'll need to unplug the negative battery cables before replacing the battery. This is essential to avoid an accidental airbag deployment. Also, you should remove the airbag system if it is equipped with one. It is essential to follow all factory repair instructions. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder, you'll need to reset your anti-theft code. This will help to prevent your vehicle from being taken. It may require a specific tool.
The crucial
If you turn your ignition key but it won't start your car, it could be an indication that the ignition lock isn't working. This is a tiny but vital component that ensures that only the correct key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a small mechanical part that works with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to be started. In time the key could wear out or cause damage to the wafer tumblers inside the lock cylinder. This could cause it to be difficult to turn.
You can fix your car's ignition problem by using some basic troubleshooting techniques. First, check that your key is in the proper position in the shifter and that the indicator on the shifter is pointing towards the P (Park) slot. If it's not, this could cause the engine to stop starting and a quick check with your dealer might be required to determine the root of the problem.
Another method is to move the the ignition switch, but take care not to apply too excessive pressure or force. This will help eliminate any minor damage to the tumblings of the wafer that prevents it from rotating. If this isn't working, try lubricating the lock cylinder with an oil based on silicone to get it moving again.
You can locate these kinds of lubricants at your local auto parts store, but make sure you use an excellent one that stops dirt from building up and causing problems in the future. If nothing else works, you will need to remove the ignition and replace it with a brand new one. This is an easy procedure that DIYers can do with the help of online guides or auto repair manuals.
If you've been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to stop drunk driving by requiring the driver to breathe through a tube before they are allowed to start their car. The device should be installed by a company that is approved, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many vehicles, the lock cylinder and ignition switch 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 your electrical system isn't operating or the switch isn't turning on, it could be that a wire has been disconnected. If you can't find the problem, it may be necessary to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder.
Ignition interlock devices
A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that must be installed in your vehicle to comply with a legal or criminal requirement. Ignition interlocks are designed to detect alcohol use disorder by analyzing the breath of drivers before the vehicle's engine can be started. If the IID determines that the driver's BAC is above the limit allowed, the horn will sound and/or lights flash, so that the driver is able to pull over and test again.
Ignition Interlocks are a great tool for those with an alcohol use disorder, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small and discreet which means they are easily hidden from sight to avoid drawing attention. Interlocks for ignition are leaseable, not bought outright and the price ranges from $60-90 a month.
The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder work together to regulate all of the electrical components in your vehicle. The ignition will not work in the event that one of these components is damaged or worn. If you're experiencing any of these issues it is crucial to fix them as quickly as possible.
If you can't get your vehicle to start, try placing the key in Park or neutral, and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you might need to take off the airbag and then disconnect the battery to gain access to your ignition switch. This is a relatively simple job that can be completed with a steering-wheel puller or GM key removal tool that you can lease from AutoZone's loan-a-tool program for free.