Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
An ignition lock is a security feature that prevents your car from starting until you have the original key. It is triggered by using the steering wheel as a support when getting into or out of your vehicle or touching it while you are parked.
It can also be triggered through vandalism or theft. You can fix your key if you are struggling to turn it.
The ignition switch is the ignition
The ignition switch is a tiny piece of your car that's vital to driving it. It's one of the first things you turn on your car and is also the one that activates all other systems in the
car ignition key replacement as well. So when it doesn't work it could be a major issue.
The main reason your
car ignition switch might fail is because of wear and wear and tear. It can happen over time, especially when your keychain is being weighed down by additional items. You can prevent this from happening by having separate sets of keys for your home and car, and by making it easier to reduce the weight on your keychain. Another reason is mechanical problems. If the ignition cylinder becomes disaligned, it could make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this is the case you'll need it replaced.
In addition to these mechanical problems Your ignition switch could also be failing because of an electrical issue. You may notice the smell of smoke or burning when you attempt to start your car. If this happens you notice smoke or a burning smell, it's crucial to have it replaced as soon as you can to avoid further damage.
The ignition switch might be stuck in the ON position. This is a safety feature that prevents someone from taking your car keys and then starting it. Typically, this means there is too high pressure on the ignition switch or the key isn't functioning properly.
In the latter case, you can lubricate the lock to see if it improves. This will eliminate any dirt particles that are blocking the key's ability to turn. Then, you can try again. You can also try an lubricant made of silicone, which will prevent dirt from building up within the lock. If you're still having issues trying to move the key before inserting it once more.
The lock cylinder
A car's ignition lock cylinder is the part that mechanically controls in which the key is inserted to start the vehicle. The cylinder is equipped with pins that move upwards and downwards to let the key in and out. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. As time passes, these tumblers can be damaged or even break, stopping the key from turning. The cylinder may fail and cause the battery of your car dying and other issues.
The most popular type is the cylinder lock. They consist of an outer shell that has an opening that is cylindrical, inside which the plug is placed. The shell that covers the outer is typically constructed of steel, while the plug is often made of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks come with a range of pins that allow them to lock or unlock in a variety of ways. Certain cylinder locks include additional security measures, like a snap-line or additional pins to guard against bumping the lock.
It is possible to tweak a difficult lock using graphite, however these methods aren't always effective for very long. It is better to replace the ignition lock cylinder. It is as simple as taking off the old ignition lock cylinder from your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. Keys will need to be replaced to replace the cylinder.
The cost of replacing the ignition lock cylinder is usually less than $300 for standard systems. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more expensive to replace. It is crucial that the procedure to replace the ignition cylinder is done by a certified professional. This is due to removing components that could interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
You'll need to unplug the negative battery cables before replacing the battery. This is important to prevent the risk of an unintentional deployment of airbags. Also, you should turn off the airbag system, if it is equipped with one. It is crucial to follow the instructions from the factory for repairs. You'll need reset the anti-theft codes following installation of the new ignition lock. This will protect your vehicle from being taken, and it may require the use of a special tool.
The crucial
If your key is turning but fails to start the vehicle it could be an indication that your ignition lock isn't functioning. This tiny but crucial component ensures that only the right key is used to operate your car. It's a tiny mechanical component that is used in conjunction with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to be started. In time the key may damage or wear out the wafer tumblers in the lock cylinder, making it difficult to turn.
You can solve the ignition issue in your car by using some basic troubleshooting techniques. First, make sure your key is in the proper position on the shifter and that the indicator on the shifter is directed at the P (Park) slot. If it's not, that could cause the engine to stop being started and a quick visit with your dealer might be required to determine what's causing the issue.
You can also play with the ignition key, but don't apply too much pressure or force. This will help to take care of any small damage to the tumblings of the wafer that is preventing it from rotating. If this doesn't work then you could try lubricating it using the use of a silicone lubricant.
You can purchase these kinds of lubricants at your local auto parts retailer, but you must also be sure to use the best one that will stop dirt from accumulating and causing further problems in the future. If all else fails you'll need to take off the cylinder for ignition and replace it with a new one. This is a fairly easy process that many DIYers can follow with the aid of online guides or an auto
repair ignition lock cylinder manual.
If you have been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to prevent drunk driving by requiring the driver to breathe into a tube before they can start their car. The device must be installed only by a provider approved, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In many vehicles the lock cylinder as well as the ignition switch are connected via wires. When you put your key in the ignition and a current is emitted 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 being disconnected. If you're unable to pinpoint the issue, it could be necessary to replace the ignition switch or cylinder.
Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a car breathalyzer which must be installed in your vehicle as part of a criminal sanctions or legal requirement. Ignition interlocks can detect alcohol-related 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 exceeds the limit allowed, the horn will sound and/or the lights flash, indicating that the driver has the option of pulling over and repeat the test.
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 beginning the vehicle. They are small and subtle, so they can be easily hidden away from view to avoid drawing attention. The cost of the ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They aren't purchased for sale.
The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are connected to control all the electrical components in your vehicle. The ignition will not function when one of these components is damaged or worn.