Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a safety feature that stops you from starting your car unless possess the original key. It activates when you use the wheel to provide support while getting out or in your vehicle or touch it when you are parked.
It can be triggered also through theft or vandalism. You can repair your key if you are struggling to turn it.
The ignition switch for the ignition
The ignition switch is a small part of your car that is vital to driving it. It's the first things you turn on your vehicle and also activates nearly all other systems in the car, too. If it's not working, it can cause a lot of problems.
Wear and tear is the main reason for an ignition switch breaking down. This can happen with time, especially if your keychain is weighed down by extra items. It is possible to avoid this by using a separate key for your house and car, and by reducing weight on your keys. The other cause is mechanical issues. It can be difficult to insert or remove the key if the ignition cylinder is not aligned properly. If this is the case, you'll need to have it replaced.
Your ignition switch might be malfunctioning due to an electrical issue. You might notice a burning or smokey smell when you try to start your vehicle. If this happens, it's important to have it repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage.
The ignition switch might be stuck in the ON position. This is an security feature that stops anyone from removing your key and then starting the engine. This typically indicates that you're applying too much pressure to the ignition switch, or your key isn't functioning properly.
Try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if that helps. This will eliminate any dirt particles preventing the key to turn. Then, you can try again. You can also use silicone-based lubricant to keep dirt from accumulating in the lock. If you still have trouble trying to move the key before inserting it again.
The lock is a cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder on a car is the mechanical component in which keys are placed to allow the vehicle to start the car. The cylinder is equipped with pins that move upwards and downwards to let the key in and out. Also, it has wafer tumblers that hold the pins in the right position. As time passes the tumblers could fail or break and prevent the key from turning. In the end, the cylinder could fail completely, resulting in an unresponsive battery and other issues in the vehicle's starting.
G28 Car Keys is the cylinder lock. They consist of an outer shell and an opening that is cylindrical, inside which the plug is placed. The outer shell is usually made of steel, whereas the plug is typically made of brass or bronze. Cylinder locks come with different pins that permit them to be locked or unlocked in a variety of ways. Certain models come with additional security measures like snap lines or additional pins that guard against lock bumping and other kinds of pick-and-pick.
It is possible to refine a tough lock with graphite, but these methods aren't always effective for very long. It is recommended to replace the ignition lock cylinder. It is as simple as taking the old cylinder of your ignition lock from your car and replacing it with a new one. A new cylinder will require new keys.
Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace an ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks, which are more expensive to replace. The process of replacing the ignition cylinder should always be carried out by an authorized professional. This is because it involves removal of components that could affect 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. You will also want to disable the airbag system, if your vehicle is equipped with one. You must follow all factory instructions. 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 specific tool.
The crucial
If your key is turning but does not start the vehicle, it could be a sign that your ignition lock isn't working. This small but vital part ensures that only the correct key is used to start your car. It's a mechanical part that is connected to an electrical component to "read" anti-theft coding to allow your vehicle to begin. Over time, the key may wear out or damage the wafer tumblers in the lock cylinder. This can make it difficult to turn.
You can fix the ignition problem in your car by using some basic troubleshooting methods. Make sure your key is in the proper place and that the indicator is pointing to the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it could cause the engine to stop beginning and a quick visit with your dealer may 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 much pressure or force. This will eliminate any minor damage to the tumblings of the wafer which prevents it from rotating. If this fails, you can try applying lubricant to the lock cylinder using an oil based on silicone to get it moving again.
These lubricants are available at the local auto parts shop. However, you should make sure to use a premium lubricant to prevent dirt from building up. This will cause more problems down the road. If nothing else works, you must take off the ignition and replace it with a brand new one. This is a fairly easy process that many DIYers can follow with the assistance of online guides or an auto repair manual.
If you have been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require that you install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to deter drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube prior to they can start their car. The device must be installed by a certified service provider, such as Intoxalock or LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many vehicles the ignition switch as well as lock cylinder are connected via wires. When you put your key in the ignition, a current flows through these wires and activates all of the electrical systems in your vehicle. If the electrical system is not functioning or the switch is stuck in the on position, it could be due to a wire that is disconnected. If you're unable to pinpoint the issue, it could be necessary to replace the ignition switch or cylinder.
Interlock devices for ignition
A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that must be installed into your vehicle to comply with the law or a criminal requirement. Ignition interlocks are made to detect alcohol use disorders by measuring the breath of drivers before the vehicle's engine can be started. If the IID detects that the driver's alcohol level is higher than the permitted limit the horn will sound, and/or the lights will flash, so that the vehicle is stopped and the driver can take a second test.
Ignition interlocks are an excellent device for people suffering from alcohol-related disorders, since they require that the person blow into a mouthpiece prior to beginning the car. They are small, discreet and can be hidden to avoid attracting attention. Ignition interlocks can be leased, not purchased outright and cost is between $60 and $90 per month.
The ignition switch and ignition cylinder regulate all electrical components inside your vehicle. If any of these parts are damaged or worn out the ignition won't start. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon 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 disconnect the battery to access your ignition switch. This is often a simple task, but it may require the use of a steering wheel puller or a GM key removal tool and both are available for rental through AutoZone's loan-a-tool service for free.