Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working
The ignition lock is a security feature that prevents you from starting your car unless you have your original key. It is activated by using the steering wheel as a support when you get into or out of your car or pressing it while parking.
It could also be caused through vandalism or theft. You can repair your key if you are having trouble turning it.
The ignition switch
The ignition switch is a tiny piece of your car that's essential to drive it. It's the first things you turn on your car, and it activates almost all other systems in the car too. If it fails to function, it can be a major problem.
Wear and tear is the main reason for an ignition switch breaking. This is a possibility with time, particularly if your keychain is weighed down by extra items. You can prevent this by having separate sets of keys for your home and car, as well as by decreasing the weight of your keychain. The other cause is mechanical problems. If the ignition cylinder becomes incorrectly aligned, it will make it difficult to insert or remove your key. If this happens you'll need to replace it.
Your ignition switch could also be failing due to an electrical problem. In this case, you might notice smoke or a burning odor when you try to start your car. If this happens, it's important to have it replaced as soon as you can to avoid further damage.
The ignition switch may be stuck in the ON position. This is a security feature that prevents someone from removing your car key and starting it. This usually indicates that you're applying too much pressure to the ignition switch, or your key isn't functioning properly.
In this case it is possible to lubricate the lock to see if it improves. This will get rid of any dirt particles hindering the key from turning. Then, you can try again. You can also apply silicone-based lubricant to keep dirt from accumulating inside the lock. If you're still having issues, try wiggling your key and inserting it again.
G28 is a cylinder
A car's ignition lock cylinder is the part that mechanically controls that allows the key to be into the cylinder to start the vehicle. The cylinder is equipped with pins that move up and down to let the key in and out. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers can fail or break and stop the key from turning. Eventually, the cylinder can fail completely, resulting in a dead battery and other problems in the vehicle's starting.
Cylinder locks are the most well-known type of car lock. The outer shell features a cylindrical hole that houses the plug. The shell that covers the outside of a cylinder lock is generally constructed of steel. The plug is usually brass or bronze. Cylinder locks are equipped with various pins that enable them to be locked or unlocked in various ways. Some have extra security measures such as a snap line or additional pins that guard against lock bumping and other types of lock picking.
It is possible to tweak a difficult lock with graphite, but these methods don't last for long. It is recommended to replace the ignition lock cylinder. It is as simple as removing 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.
Standard systems typically cost less than $300 to replace an ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks that are more costly to replace. It is crucial that the procedure to replace an ignition cylinder is performed by a certified professional. This is because the procedure involves removing components that could affect the restraint systems that are supplemental (airbags).
You'll need to unplug the negative battery cables before replacing the battery. This is essential to avoid the airbag from accidentally being deployed. Also, you should remove the airbag system in the event that it has one. It is crucial to follow all factory repair instructions. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder you'll have to reset the anti-theft code. This will prevent your car from being stolen and may require the use of a special tool.
The key
If you turn your key, but it won't start your car, this could be an indication that the ignition lock isn't working. This tiny, but essential part ensures that only the right key is used to start your vehicle. It's a small mechanical component that works with an electrical component. This allows your vehicle to start. In time, the key can cause damage or wear on the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder, which makes it difficult to turn.
While replacing your key is typically the best option, you can also try some basic troubleshooting methods to resolve the ignition issue of your car at home. First, ensure that your key is in the proper position on the shifter and that the indicator on the shifter is pointed towards the P (Park) slot. If not, it could cause the engine to stop beginning and a quick check with your dealer may be necessary to find out what's causing the issue.
Another step you can take is to move the key in the ignition switch, but take care not to apply too much pressure or force. This can free up any slight destruction to the wafer tumblers which is preventing it from turning. If this fails, 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 shop. However, you must make sure to use a premium lubricant to stop dirt from building up. This could cause problems later on. If nothing else works, you must take off the ignition and replace it with a brand new one. This is a straightforward process that DIYers can follow with the aid of online guides or auto repair manuals.
If you've been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state may require that you install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are intended to prevent drunken driving by making drivers breathe into a tube prior to beginning their vehicle. The device must be installed by a company that is approved, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer.
The wiring
In a lot of vehicles, the lock cylinder and ignition switch are connected by wires. When you put your key in the ignition the current flows through these wires and activates all the electrical systems in your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't functioning or the switch is stuck on it could be because the wire is disconnected. If you are unable to identify the problem, it may 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 installed in your vehicle as part of a criminal sanctions or a legal obligation. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use disorders in drivers by analyzing their breath before the engine of the vehicle is started. If the IID determines 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 can be stopped and the driver may take a second test.
Ignition Interlocks are a great tool for those suffering from an alcohol-related disorder, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior beginning the vehicle. 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 purchased outright.
The ignition switch as well as the ignition cylinder work together to regulate all of the electrical parts in your car. If any of these parts are damaged or worn out the ignition won't start. If you're experiencing any of these problems, it is important to get them fixed in the shortest time possible.
If you are having trouble getting your car started Try putting the key into neutral or park and then turning it. If that doesn't work, you might need to take off the airbag and then disconnect the battery to get access to the ignition switch. This is usually a straightforward task, but it may require a steering wheel puller or a GM key removal kit and both are available for rental through AutoZone's loan-a-tool service for free.