Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a security feature that stops you from starting your car unless have the original key. It gets triggered when you use the wheel to provide support when you get into or out of your vehicle or touch it while parked.
It could also be caused by acts of vandalism or theft. You can repair your key if you're having trouble turning it.
The ignition switch is the ignition
The ignition switch is a small part of your car, but it's vital to driving it. It is one of the first parts that you switch on when you start your vehicle and also triggers many other systems. If it's not working it could be a huge issue.
The primary reason why your car ignition switch might fail is due to wear and wear and tear. It can happen over time, particularly if your keychain is weighed down by additional items. You can prevent this by having a separate set of keys for your house and car, and also by reducing the weight on your keychain. Another cause is mechanical problems. If the ignition cylinder becomes incorrectly aligned, it will make it difficult to remove or insert your key. If this is the case you'll have to replace it.
In addition to these mechanical problems Your ignition switch could also be failing because of an electrical issue. In this instance you may smell smoke or a burning smell when you try to start your vehicle. It's important that you replace it immediately to prevent any further damage.
Another reason you might be unable to start your car is that the ignition switch is locked in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents someone from taking the car key and starting it. Usually, this means you have too much pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't working properly.
Try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if it helps. This will release any dirt particles that may be preventing the key from turning, and you can try again. You can also use silicone-based lubricant to prevent dirt from building up inside the lock. If you are still having issues trying to move your key and then inserting it once again.
The lock cylinder
A car's ignition lock cylinder is the mechanical part in which the key is inserted to start the vehicle. The pins within the cylinder move upwards and downwards, permitting the key to be inserted and turned. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers may become worn out or even break, preventing the key from turning. The cylinder may eventually fail which could result in the battery of your car dying and other issues.
The most popular type is the cylindrical lock. The outer shell has a cylindrical hole that houses the plug. The shell that covers the outside of the cylinder lock is usually made of steel. The plug is often brass or bronze. Cylinder locks come with a variety of different pins, which allow them to lock or unlock in multiple ways. Some cylinder locks have additional security measures, like snap-line pins or other pins to prevent bumping of the lock.
While it is possible to fix the cylinder of a lock that is difficult to work using graphite or WD-40 these solutions typically don't last for very long. It is recommended to replace the ignition lock cylinder. It is as simple as removing the old cylinder of your ignition lock from 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. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more costly to change. It is crucial that the procedure for replacing an ignition cylinder be performed by a certified professional. This is because the process involves removing parts that could interfere with the restraint systems that are supplemental (airbags).
In order to replace the battery you'll need to unplug the battery cable that is negative. This is necessary to prevent the risk of an unintentional deployment of airbags. It is also recommended to disable any airbag system if your car is equipped with one. ignition lock cylinder repair cost is essential to follow all instructions for repair by the manufacturer. You'll need reset the anti-theft code after installing the new ignition lock. This will prevent your vehicle from being taken and may require the use of a particular tool.
The most important
If your key is turning but fails to start the car, it could be a sign that your ignition lock isn't functioning. It's a minor but vital component that ensures only the correct key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a mechanical component that is connected to an electrical component to "read" anti-theft code to allow your vehicle to begin. Over time, the key may wear out or damage the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder. This could make it difficult to turn.
While the replacement of a key is often the best option however, you can also try basic troubleshooting techniques to solve the ignition issue in your car at home. Make sure your key is in the proper position and that the indicator is pointed to the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it could stop the engine from starting and a quick check with your auto dealer may be required to determine the root of the problem.
Another step you can take is to press the key in the ignition switch, but be cautious not to apply too much force or pressure. This could cause tiny damage to the wafer tumblers, which is hindering it from turning. If this doesn't work, you can try lubricating it with an lubricant made of silicone.
You can purchase these kinds of fluids at your local auto parts store, but you should also be sure to use a quality one that prevents dirt from accumulating and causing problems in the future. If all else fails, you must remove the ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a simple process that DIYers can follow with the aid of online guides or auto repair manuals.
If you've been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require that you install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are intended to stop drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube prior to starting their car. The device should be installed only by a service provider that is that is approved, like Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many vehicles the ignition switch and lock cylinder 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 because the wire has been cut off. If you are unable to determine the reason behind the problem, you may need to get a new ignition switch or the cylinder.
Ignition Interlock Devices
A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that needs to be installed into your vehicle to comply with an enforceable or criminal obligation. Ignition interlocks can detect alcohol use disorder by analyzing the breath of a driver before the engine can be started. If the IID determines that the driver's BAC is higher than the limit allowed the horn sounds and/or flash lights, so that the driver is able to pull over and retest.
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 beginning the car. They are small and discreet and are easily hidden away from the view of others to avoid attracting attention. The cost of the ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They aren't purchased in bulk.
The ignition switch and ignition cylinder control all electrical components in your vehicle. The ignition won't work if any of these components are damaged or worn. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's essential to fix them as soon as possible.
If you are unable to get your vehicle to start, try placing the key in Park or neutral and then turning it. If this doesn't work you may need to remove the airbag and disconnect the battery to get access to your ignition switch. This is typically a simple task, but it may require a steering wheel puller or a GM key removal tool that can be rented from AutoZone's loan-a-tool program for free.