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Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working

The ignition lock is a security feature that prevents you from starting your car unless possess the original key. It activates when you use the wheel to provide support when you get in or out of your vehicle or touch it while parked.

It could also be caused through vandalism or theft. If you're having difficulty turning your key, these simple solutions could aid:

The ignition switch

The ignition switch is a small part of your car, but it's essential for driving it. It's among the first things you turn on when you start your vehicle, and it also activates many other systems. When it fails it could cause many issues.

Wear and tear is the primary reason for an ignition switch breaking. This is a possibility over time, particularly when you have a lot of other things on your keychain that weigh it down. You can avoid this by using a separate keys for your car and house and by reducing the weight on your keys. Another reason is mechanical issues. If the ignition cylinder is misaligned, it can make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this is the case, you will need to replace it.

In addition to these mechanical problems, your ignition switch may also be failing because of an electrical issue. You might notice a burning or smokey smell when you attempt to start your vehicle. It's important that you replace it immediately to avoid any further damage.

The ignition switch might be stuck in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents anyone from removing your car key and re-starting it. This usually means that you are applying too much pressure to the ignition switch, or the key isn't working properly.

Try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if this helps. This will eliminate any dirt particles that are blocking the key's ability to turn. Then try again. You can also try a silicone-based lubricant that will prevent dirt from building up within the lock. If you are still having issues trying to move your key before inserting it once again.

The lock cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder of automobiles is the mechanical part that keys are inserted in order to start the car ignition lock. The cylinder has pins that move upwards and downwards to allow the key in and turn. The pins are held in place by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers could wear out or even break and prevent the key from turning. In the end, the cylinder could fail completely, resulting in dead batteries and other issues with your car's starting.

Cylinder locks are the most well-known type of car lock. They comprise an outer shell with a cylindrical hole inside which the plug is housed. The shell that covers the outside of the cylinder lock is usually constructed of steel. The plug is often bronze or brass. Cylinder locks can be found with a variety of different pins that allow them to lock or unlock in a variety of ways. Some come with additional security features like snap lines or additional pins that guard against lock bumping and other types of lock picking.

While it is possible to finesse a cylinder that is difficult to lock with graphite or WD-40, these solutions typically don't last for 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 replacing it with a brand new one. Keys will need to be replaced for a new cylinder.

The cost of replacing an ignition lock cylinder is typically less than $300 for standard systems. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks which are more expensive to replace. The process of replacing the ignition cylinder must be performed by an experienced professional certified. This is because the procedure involves removing any parts that may interfere with the supplementary restraint systems (airbags).

To perform the replacement, you'll need to disconnect the battery cable that is negative. This is essential to avoid the possibility of an accident involving airbag deployment. Also, you should disable the airbag system in the event that it has one. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder, you'll need to reset your anti-theft code. This will stop your car from being stolen. It could require a specific tool.

The most important

If you turn your key, but it doesn't start your car, it could be a sign that the ignition lock isn't functioning properly. This is a tiny but vital component that ensures only the right key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a mechanical part 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, which makes it difficult to turn.

You can fix the ignition lock repair problem in your car by employing a few basic troubleshooting methods. First, check that your key is in the right position on the shifter and that the indicator on the shifter is directed at the P (Park) slot. If not, it could stop the engine from starting and a quick visit with your auto dealer may be necessary to find 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 small damage to the wafer tumblers, which is preventing it from turning. If this isn't working, try applying lubricant to the lock cylinder using a silicone-based lubricant to get it moving again.

These lubricants can be found at your local auto parts store. But, it is important to make sure to use a premium lubricant to stop dirt from building up. This will cause more problems later on. If nothing else works you'll need to take off the ignition cylinder and replace it with a new one. This is a straightforward procedure that DIYers can do with the help of online guides or auto repair ignition lock cylinder manuals.

If you've recently been arrested for the crime of DUI or DWI, your state might require you to install an ignition interlock device (IID). These devices are designed to prevent drunk driving by requiring the driver to breathe into a tube prior to they are allowed to start their car. The device is installed by an approved provider, like Intoxalock or LifeSafer.

The wiring

In many automobiles, the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected via wires. When you insert the key into the ignition, current runs through these wires to trigger the electrical systems of your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't functioning or the switch has a problem staying on, it could be that the wire is disconnected. If you can't determine the reason behind the problem it is possible to replace the ignition switch or cylinder.

Interlocks for ignition devices

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a vehicle breathalyzer which must be installed in your vehicle as part of a criminal sanctions or a legal obligation. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use impairment in drivers by analyzing their breath prior to when the engine of the vehicle is started. If the IID detects that the driver's BAC is above the limit allowed the horn will sound and/or flash lights, so that the driver can pull over and repeat the test.

Ignition interlocks are an excellent option for those suffering from alcohol-related disorders, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small, discreet and can be concealed to keep them from being noticed. Interlocks for ignition cylinder lock repair are leaseable, not bought outright and cost is between $60 and $90 per month.

The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are connected to control all of the electrical components in your vehicle. The ignition will not function if any of these components are damaged or worn. If you're experiencing one or more of these issues, it's essential to have them fixed as soon as possible.

If you're having difficulty starting your vehicle, try placing the key in neutral or park, and then turning it. If this doesn't work you may need to remove the airbag and disconnect the battery to gain access to your ignition switch. This is a fairly easy task that can be done using a steering-wheel puller, or GM key removal tool that you can lease through AutoZone's loan-a tool service for free.