Why We Our Love For Car Ignition Lock (And You Should Too!)

Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working An ignition lock is a security measure that prevents your car from starting until you have the original key. It's activated by using the steering wheel as a support when getting into or out of your vehicle or pressing it while parking. It can also be triggered by acts of vandalism or theft. If you're having difficulty turning your key, a few easy solutions could aid: The ignition switch The ignition switch is a small part of your car that is vital to driving it. It is one of the first things that you switch on when you start your vehicle and also powers most other systems. If it's not working, it can be a major issue. Wear and tear is the main reason for a car ignition switch breaking. This is a possibility with time, particularly when your keychain is being weighed down by additional items. You can prevent this by having a separate set of keys for your home and car, and by decreasing the weight of your keychain. Mechanical problems are another cause. It can be difficult to insert or remove the key if the cylinder for ignition is not aligned correctly. If this happens, you will need to replace it. The ignition switch may be failing due to an electrical problem. In this scenario you may notice smoke or a burning smell when you attempt to start your vehicle. It is essential to replace it as soon as you can to prevent further damage. The ignition switch might be stuck in the ON position. This is an alarm system that blocks anyone from removing your key and starting the engine. This usually indicates that you're applying too much pressure to the ignition switch, or that the key isn't working properly. You can try lubricating the lock in the second case to see if this helps. This will remove any dirt particles that are preventing the key to turn. Then, you can try again. You can also use a silicone-based grease to stop dirt from accumulating inside the lock. If you still have trouble, try wiggling the key before inserting it once more. The lock cylinder A car's ignition lock cylinder is the part that mechanically controls that allows the key to be in to start the car. The cylinder is equipped with pins that move up and down to allow the key to enter and turn. mobile ignition lock repair services are fixed by wafer tumblers. As time passes the tumblers may become worn out or break, preventing the key from turning. Eventually, the cylinder can fail completely, resulting in a dead battery and other problems in the vehicle's starting. The most popular type is the cylindrical lock. The outer shell is made of cylindrical hole that houses the plug. The outer shell is usually made of steel, whereas the plug is usually made of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks have different pins that enable them to be locked or unlocked in various ways. Some have extra security measures such as snap lines or additional pins that protect against lock bumping and other forms of lock picking. It is possible to refine a tough lock using graphite, however these solutions don't usually work for long. It is recommended to replace the ignition lock cylinder. This can be accomplished by removing the old lock out of your vehicle and replacing it with a new one. A new cylinder will also require new keys. Standard systems typically cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more expensive to replace. It is important that the procedure for replacing an ignition cylinder is performed by an accredited professional. This is due to the removal of any components that may interfere with the supplemental restraint system (airbags). You'll need to disconnect negative battery cables before replacing the battery. This is important to prevent an accidental airbag deployment. It is also recommended to turn off any airbag system if your vehicle is equipped with it. It is important to follow the factory repair instructions. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder, you'll have to reset the anti-theft code. This will help prevent your vehicle from being stolen and could require the use of a specific 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 is a small but important part that ensures only the right key is used to operate your vehicle. It's a small mechanical part that works with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to be started. As time passes, the key may wear out or damage the wafer tumblers in the lock cylinder. This could cause it to be difficult to turn. While the replacement of a key is often the best option however, you can also try some basic troubleshooting methods to solve the ignition issue in your car at home. Make sure your key is in its proper place and that the indicator is pointing towards the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it could cause the vehicle to not start. It is possible to speak with your dealer to determine what's the reason for the issue. You can also turn the ignition key, but don't apply too much force or pressure. This will help eliminate any minor damage to the tumblings of the wafer that prevents it from rotating. If this doesn't work, you can try applying lubricant to the lock cylinder using an lubricant made of silicone to get it moving again. These lubricants are available at your local auto parts store. But, it is important to make sure to use a premium lubricant to stop dirt from building up. This could cause problems down the road. If all else fails you must take off 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 detained recently for DUI or DWI your state might require that you install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to prevent drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe into a tube prior to they can start their car. The device should be installed by a company that is approved, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer. The wiring In many automobiles the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected by wires. When you insert your key into the ignition and a current is emitted through these wires and activates all of the electrical systems inside your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't operating or the switch is stuck on it could be because a wire has been disconnected. If you can't find the issue, it could be necessary to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder. Ignition Interlock Devices An ignition interlock device (IID) is a car breathalyzer that must be fitted in your vehicle as part of a criminal penalty or legal requirement. Ignition interlocks can detect alcohol-related disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath before the engine of the vehicle can be started. If the IID determines that the driver's alcohol consumption is greater than the limit allowed, a alarm will sound, and/or the lights will flash to indicate that the vehicle can be stopped and the driver can test again. Ignition interlocks are a great tool for people with drinking disorders because they require that the user blow into a mouthpiece prior to starting the vehicle. They are small, discreet and can be hidden to keep them from being noticed. The cost of ignition interlocks ranges from $60-90 per month. They aren't purchased for sale. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are connected to control all of the electrical parts in your vehicle. 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 fix them as soon as you can. If you are having trouble starting your vehicle Try putting the key into neutral or park before turning it. If this doesn't work, then you might need to remove the battery and take out the airbag to gain access to the ignition switch. This is a fairly simple job that can be completed with a steering-wheel puller or GM key removal tool that you can borrow from AutoZone’s free loan-a-tool service.