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 possess the original key. It is activated when you use the wheel to provide assistance when getting into or out of your vehicle or touch it when parked.
It can be triggered also by theft or vandalism. If you're having trouble turning your key, a few easy solutions could assist:
The ignition switch
The ignition switch is a small part of your car, but it's essential for driving it. It's the first switches you turn on your vehicle and is also the one that activates all other systems within the car, too. So when it doesn't work, it can be a major issue.
The primary reason that your car ignition switch might fail is because of wear and tear. This is a possibility with time, particularly when your keychain is weighted down by additional items. You can prevent this by having a separate set of keys for your house and car, and by decreasing the weight of your keychain. Mechanical problems are another cause. It can be difficult to insert or remove the key if the cylinder for ignition is not aligned correctly. If this is the case you'll have to replace it.
In addition to these mechanical issues the ignition switch could be failing due to an electrical issue. In this case you may smell smoke or a burning smell when you attempt to start your car. If you do it is important to get it repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage.
The ignition switch might be stuck in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents anyone from taking out your key and then starting the engine. This usually means that you are applying too much pressure on the ignition switch, or that your key isn't functioning properly.
In this instance you can apply lubrication to the lock to see if it improves. This will help to remove any dirt particles that may hinder the key from turning, and you can try it again. You can also apply silicone-based lubricant to prevent dirt from accumulating in the lock. If you are still having trouble, try wiggling your key before inserting it once again.
The lock cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder of a car is the mechanical part where the key gets in to start the car. The pins within the cylinder move upwards and downwards, allowing the key to enter and turn. Also, it includes wafer tumblers that keep the pins in the right position. As time passes, the tumblers may fail or break, preventing the key from turning. Eventually, the cylinder can fail completely, resulting in a dead battery and other issues with the car's start.
The most well-known type is the cylinder lock. They comprise an outer shell and a cylindrical hole in which the plug is placed. The outer shell of the cylinder lock is usually constructed of steel. The plug is often brass or bronze. Cylinder locks have different pins that allow them to be locked or unlocked in a variety of ways. Some cylinder locks have additional security features, such as snap-line pins or additional pins to guard against lock bumping.
Although it is possible to finesse the cylinder of a lock that is difficult to work with graphite or WD-40, these solutions usually don't work for very long. It is recommended to replace the ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by taking the old one out of your car, and replacing it with a new one. New keys are required to replace the cylinder.
The cost of replacing the ignition lock cylinder is usually less than $300 for the standard systems. Some vehicles have electronic locks that are more costly to replace. It is crucial that the procedure for replacing an ignition cylinder be performed by an accredited professional. This is due to removal of components that could interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
To perform the replacement for the replacement, you'll have to disconnect the negative battery cable. This is necessary to prevent an airbag from being accidentally deployed. It is also recommended to turn off any airbag system if your vehicle is equipped with it. It is essential to follow all instructions for repair by the manufacturer. You'll need to reset the anti-theft code after installing the new ignition lock. This will prevent your car from being stolen and may require the use of a specific tool.
The crucial
If your key is turning but isn't able to start your vehicle, it could be an indication that your ignition lock isn't working. It's a minor but crucial component that makes sure only the right key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a small mechanical part that is used in conjunction with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to be started. In time, the key may wear out or cause damage to the wafer tumblers inside the lock cylinder. This can cause it to be difficult to turn.
While replacing your key is typically the best solution however, you can also try basic troubleshooting methods to fix your car ignition problem at home. First, check that your key is in the correct 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 beginning and a quick visit with your dealer may be necessary to figure out what's causing the issue.
You can also turn the ignition key, but don't apply too much force or pressure. This could cause slight destruction to the wafer tumblers that's preventing it from turning. If this isn't working, try applying lubricant to the lock cylinder using an lubricant made of silicone to get it moving again.
These lubricants are available at your local auto parts store. But, it is important to make sure to use a premium lubricant to prevent dirt from accumulating. This could cause issues down the road. If nothing else works, you must remove the ignition and replace it with a brand new one. This is a simple process that DIYers can easily follow using online guides or auto repair manuals.
If you have been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). G28 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 only by a service provider that is that is approved, like Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In a lot of vehicles the lock cylinder and ignition switch are connected via wires. When you insert the key into the ignition, current flows through these wires to activate the electrical systems of your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't working or the switch is stuck on, it could be that the wire is disconnected. If you can't find the issue, it could be necessary to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder.
Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a vehicle breathalyzer that must be installed in your car as part of a criminal sanctions or a legal requirement. Ignition interlocks can detect alcohol use disorders by measuring the breath of a driver before the engine can be started. If the IID determines the driver's alcohol content is higher than the limit allowed the horn will sound, and/or the lights will flash to indicate that the vehicle can be stopped and the driver may take a second test.
Ignition interlocks can be a useful device for people suffering from alcohol use disorders, as they require that the person blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small, discreet and can be hidden to avoid attracting attention. Ignition interlocks are leasing, not bought and cost can range from $60 to 90 per month.
The ignition switch and cylinder control all electrical components in your vehicle. The ignition will not function if any of these components is damaged or worn. If you are experiencing any of these issues it is essential to fix them in the shortest time possible.
If you can't get your car to start, try putting the key in Park or neutral and then turning it. If this doesn't work, you may need to remove the airbag, and then disconnect the battery to get access to the ignition switch. This is a fairly simple task that can be accomplished using a steering wheel puller or GM key removal tool that you can lease through AutoZone's loan-a tool service for free.