Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a security feature that stops you from getting your car started unless you have your original key. It is triggered by using the steering wheel to support you when getting into or out of your vehicle or touching it while you are parked.
It can also be triggered by vandalism or theft. If you're having difficulty turning your key, a few simple solutions could assist:
The ignition switch for the ignition
The ignition switch is a tiny part of your car that is essential to drive it. It's one of the first things you do on your vehicle, and it activates almost all the other systems in the car too. When it fails it can lead to a lot of problems.
The primary reason that the ignition switch on your car can fail is due to wear and wear and tear. It can happen in time, particularly if you have extra items on your keychain that weigh it down. It is possible to avoid this by having a separate key for your car and house and by reducing the weight on your keys. Another cause is mechanical problems. It may be difficult to remove or insert the key if the ignition cylinder is not aligned correctly. If this is the case you'll need to replace it.
In addition to these mechanical problems Your ignition switch could be failing due to an electrical issue. In this case you may smell smoke or a burning odor when you try to start your vehicle. If this happens, it's important to have it repaired as soon as possible 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 out your key and then starting the engine. Typically, this means there is too much pressure on your ignition switch or that your key isn't functioning correctly.
You can try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if this helps. This will remove any dirt particles that may hinder the key from turning, and you can try again. You can also apply an lubricant made of silicone, which will help to keep dirt from accumulating within the lock. If you are still having trouble, try wiggling your key before inserting it once again.
The lock cylinder
A car's ignition lock cylinder is the part that mechanically controls where the key gets into the cylinder to start the vehicle. The pins within the cylinder move up and down, permitting the key to be inserted and turned. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. As time passes the tumblers could fail or break and stop the key from turning. The cylinder may fail and cause a dead car battery and other problems.
Cylinder locks are the most common type of car lock. They are made up of an outer shell that has an opening that is cylindrical, inside which the plug is housed. The outer shell is usually made of steel, while the plug is usually constructed of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks are available with a variety of pins that allow them to lock or unlock in multiple ways. Certain cylinder locks come with additional security measures such as a snap-line or additional pins to prevent lock bumping.
It is possible to fine-tune a difficult lock using graphite, but these methods aren't always effective for very long. It is best to replace the ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by taking the old one out of your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. Keys will need to be replaced for a new cylinder.
The cost of replacing an ignition lock cylinder is usually less than $300 for the standard systems. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more expensive to replace. It is crucial that the process of replacing the ignition cylinder is done by an accredited professional. This is due to removing components that could affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
To replace the battery for the replacement, you'll have to disconnect the negative battery cable. This is essential to avoid the risk of an unintentional deployment of airbags. It is also recommended to disable the airbag system, if your vehicle has one. It is essential to follow the factory instructions. You'll have to reset the anti-theft codes following installation of the new ignition lock. This will help to prevent your vehicle from being stolen. car ignition switch repair may require a specific tool.
The most important
If your key is turning but isn't able to start your car it could indicate that your ignition lock isn't working. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the correct key is used to start your vehicle. It's a mechanical component that works with an electronic component to "read" anti-theft coding to allow your vehicle to begin. Over time, the key may wear out or damage the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder. This can cause it to be difficult to turn.
You can fix your car's ignition problem by using some basic troubleshooting methods. Make sure your key is in its correct position and that the indicator is pointed towards the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it could cause the engine to stop starting, and a quick check with your dealer might be necessary to figure out the root of the problem.
Another option is to jiggle the the ignition switch, but take care not to apply too much pressure or force. This will help remove any small damage to the tumblings of the wafer which prevents it from rotating. If this doesn't work, you can try lubricating it using an lubricant made of silicone.
You can locate these kinds of oil-based lubricants at your local auto parts store, but also be sure to use an excellent one that stops dirt from accumulating and causing more problems in the future. If all else fails then you'll have to take out the cylinder for ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a straightforward process that DIYers can easily follow with the aid of online guides or manuals for auto repair.
If you've recently been arrested for the crime of DUI or DWI the state you live in might require you to install an ignition interlock device (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 should be installed only by a service provider that is approved, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many automobiles, the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected with wires. When you insert the key into the ignition, current flows through these wires to trigger all the electrical systems in your vehicle. If the electrical system isn't working or the switch is stuck in the on position, it may be due to a wire that is disconnected. If you can't determine the root of the issue it is possible to get a new ignition switch or cylinder.
Ignition Interlock Devices
A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that must be installed in your vehicle to satisfy an enforceable or criminal obligation. Ignition interlocks can detect alcohol-related disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath prior to when the engine of the vehicle is started. If the IID determines that the driver's BAC is higher than the limit allowed, the horn will sound and/or lights flash, so that the driver has the option of pulling over and test again.
Ignition Interlocks are a wonderful tool for those suffering from an alcohol-related disorder, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece before getting the car started. They are small, discreet and can be concealed to avoid attracting attention. The cost of ignition interlocks ranges from $60-90 per month. They are not bought outright.
The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder work together to control all the electrical components in your car. If any of these components are damaged or worn out the ignition won't start. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's important to get them repaired in the shortest time possible.
If you're unable to get your vehicle 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 your ignition switch. This is a simple job that can be accomplished using a steering wheel puller or GM key removal tool that you can borrow from AutoZone's loan-a-tool program for free.