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 even touch it while parked.
It can also be triggered by vandalism or theft. You can fix your key if you're having difficulty turning it.
The ignition switch is the ignition
The ignition switch is a small piece of your car that's essential for driving it. It's the first switches you turn on your vehicle, and it activates almost all other systems in the car as well. When it fails it could cause many issues.
Wear and tear is the main cause of a car ignition switch failing. It can happen over time, particularly when your keychain is being weighed down by other items. You can prevent this from happening by having a separate set of keys for your house and car, and 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 happens you'll need it replaced.
In addition to these mechanical problems, your ignition switch may also be failing because of an electrical issue. There may be the smell of smoke or burning when you try to start your vehicle. If this happens it is important to get it replaced as soon as you can to prevent further damage.
Another reason why you may not be able to start your car is that the ignition switch is locked in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents anyone from taking the car key and re-starting it. Typically, this means that you have too high pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't functioning properly.
Try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if that aids. This will release any dirt particles that may hinder the key from turning, and you can try it again. You can also try an lubricant made of silicone, which will help to keep dirt from accumulating inside the lock. If you're still having issues, try wiggling your key and then inserting it once again.
The lock is a cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder in automobiles is the mechanical component that keys are inserted in order to start the car. The cylinder is made up of pins that move up and down to let the key in and out. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers become worn out or even break, stopping the key from turning. The cylinder may fail which could result in a dead car battery and other problems.
Cylinder locks are the most common type of car lock. They consist of an outer shell with an opening that is cylindrical, inside which the plug is placed. The outer shell of the cylinder lock is usually made of steel. The plug is often bronze or brass. Cylinder locks are equipped with various pins that allow them to be locked or unlocked in a variety of ways. Certain cylinder locks come with additional security measures such as snap-line pins or additional pins to protect against bumping the lock.
It is possible to refine a tough lock using graphite, but these methods don't last for long. It is recommended to replace the ignition lock cylinder. You can do this by removing the old cylinder of your ignition lock from your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. Keys will need to be replaced to replace the cylinder.
The cost of replacing an ignition lock cylinder usually less than $300 for standard systems. Some vehicles have electronic locks that are more costly to replace. It is crucial that the process of replacing the ignition cylinder is done by a certified professional. This is due to removal of components that could affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags).
To perform the replacement you'll need to unplug the battery cable with negative charge. This is essential to avoid the possibility of an accident involving airbag deployment. You will also want to disable the airbag system if your vehicle has one. It is essential to follow the factory instructions. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder, you'll need to reset your anti-theft code. This will prevent your car being stolen. It may require a specific tool.
The key
If your key is turning but fails to start the car it could be a sign that your ignition lock isn't working. It's a minor but vital component that ensures only the right key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a small mechanical part that is used in conjunction with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to be started. In time, the key may wear out or damage the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder. This could cause it to be difficult to turn.
While a new key is usually the best option, you can also try some basic troubleshooting to help fix your car ignition problem at home. First, ensure that your key is in the right position in the shifter, and that the indicator on the shifter is pointed at the P (Park) slot. If not, it may prevent the vehicle from starting. You may have to check with your dealer to determine what is the reason for the issue.
Another option is to move the key in the ignition switch, but be careful not to apply too much force or pressure. This could cause tiny damage to the wafer tumblers that's preventing it from turning. If this fails, you can try applying lubricant to the lock cylinder using an oil based on silicone to get it moving again.
You can purchase these kinds of lubricants at your local auto parts retailer, but you must also be sure to use an excellent one that stops dirt from accumulating and causing problems in the future. If all else fails, you must remove the ignition and replace it with a brand new one. This is a relatively simple procedure that a majority of DIYers can follow with the assistance of online guides or an auto repair manual.
If you've been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to deter drunk driving by making drivers breathe into a tube prior to beginning their vehicle. The device should be installed only by a provider that is approved, like Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In a lot of vehicles the lock cylinder as well as the ignition switch are connected by wires. When you insert your key into the ignition, current flows through these wires, triggering all electrical systems in your vehicle. If the electrical system is not functioning 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 cause of the problem, you may need to purchase a new ignition switch or cylinder.
Interlock devices for ignition
A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that has to be installed in your vehicle to satisfy the law or a criminal obligation. Ignition interlocks detect alcohol use disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath before the engine of the vehicle can be started. If the IID detects that the driver's BAC is above the permitted limit the horn will sound and/or lights flash, so that the driver is able to pull over and repeat the test.
G28 can be a useful tool for people with alcohol-related disorders, since they require that the person blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small, discreet and can be concealed to avoid being noticed. The cost of the ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They aren't purchased outright.
The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder work together to regulate all of the electrical parts in your vehicle. The ignition will not function when one of these components is damaged or worn. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's important to have them fixed as soon as possible.
If you're having difficulty getting your car started Try putting the key into neutral or park and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you might have to remove the airbag and disconnect the battery to access the ignition switch. This is typically a simple task, but it will require a steering wheel puller or a GM key removal tool and both can be rented from AutoZone's loan-a tool program for no cost.