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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 is activated when you use the wheel for support while getting out or in your vehicle or touch it when parked. It can also be triggered by acts of vandalism or theft. If you're having difficulty turning your key, these simple fixes may aid: The ignition switch The ignition switch is a small piece of your car that's essential to drive it. It's the first switches you turn on your car and also activates nearly all the other systems in the car as well. If it's not working it could be a major issue. Wear and tear is the primary reason for an ignition switch breaking down. It could happen over time, particularly if you have extra items on your keychain that weigh it down. You can avoid this by using a separate keys for your house and car and by reducing the weight on your keys. The other cause is mechanical problems. If the ignition cylinder becomes misaligned, it can make it difficult to remove or insert your key. If this is the case, you'll need to have it replaced. In addition to these mechanical issues, your ignition switch may also be malfunctioning due to an electrical issue. In this case, you might notice smoke or a burning smell when you attempt to start your vehicle. It's important that you replace it immediately to avoid any further damage. The ignition switch might be stuck in the ON position. This is an security feature that stops anyone from taking out your key and then starting the engine. Usually, this means there is too much pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't working correctly. In this case, you can lubricate the lock to see if it helps. This will help to remove any dirt particles that could be preventing the key from turning, and you can try it again. You can also try a silicone-based lubricant, which will prevent dirt from building up within the lock. If you're still having issues trying to move the key and then inserting it once more. The lock the cylinder The ignition lock cylinder on automobiles is the part that has a mechanical structure that keys are put to start the vehicle. The pins inside the cylinder move upwards and downwards, allowing the key to enter and turn. It also includes wafer tumblers that keep the pins in their place. Over time the tumblers can fail or break and prevent the key from turning. Eventually, the cylinder can fail completely, causing a dead battery and other problems with your car's starting. Cylinder locks are the most well-known type of car lock. The outer shell has a cylindrical hole which houses the plug. The shell that covers the outer is typically constructed of steel, while the plug is typically made of brass or bronze. Cylinder locks can be found with a variety of different pins, which permit them to lock or unlock in multiple ways. Certain cylinder locks include additional security measures such as snap-line pins or other pins to protect against bumping the lock. While it is possible to fix a difficult lock cylinder with graphite or WD-40, these solutions usually don't work for long. It is better to replace the ignition lock cylinder. This can be accomplished by taking the old one out of your vehicle and replacing it with a brand new one. Keys will need to be replaced for a new cylinder. The cost of replacing an ignition lock cylinder is typically less than $300 for the standard systems. Some vehicles have electronic locks that are more costly to replace. It is crucial that the procedure to replace an ignition cylinder is performed by an accredited professional. This is because the process involves removing components that could affect supplemental restraint systems (airbags). You'll need to unplug the negative battery cables before you can replace the battery. This is essential to avoid the risk of an unintentional deployment of airbags. Also, repair ignition lock cylinder should remove the airbag system if it is equipped with one. It is important 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 vehicle from being taken, and it may require the use of a particular tool. The most important If your key turns, but does not start the car it could be a sign that your ignition lock isn't working. This small but vital part ensures that only the correct key is used to operate your car. It's a mechanical part that is connected to an electrical component to “read” anti-theft codes to allow your vehicle to begin. Over time the key may cause damage or wear to the wafer tumblers inside the lock cylinder, which makes it difficult to turn. You can fix the ignition problem in your car by using some basic troubleshooting techniques. Make sure that your key is in the correct position and that the indicator is pointing to the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it could cause the vehicle to not start. You may have to consult with your dealer to determine what is the cause of the issue. You can also play with the ignition key, but don't apply too much pressure or force. This could cause small damage to the wafer tumblers that's stopping it from turning. If this doesn't work, you can try lubricating the wafer with a silicone lubricant. You can purchase these kinds of oil-based lubricants at the local auto parts store, but make sure you 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 remove the ignition cylinder and replace it with a brand new one. This is a fairly simple process that most DIYers can follow with the assistance of online guides or an auto repair manual. If you have been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state might require you to install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are designed to deter drunk driving by requiring drivers to breathe through a tube before they are allowed to start their car. The device must be installed by an approved provider, such as Intoxalock or LifeSafer. The wiring In a lot of vehicles, the lock cylinder and ignition switch are connected with wires. When you insert your key into the ignition and a current is emitted through these wires and triggers all of the electrical systems inside your vehicle. If your electrical system isn't operating or the switch isn't turning on, it could be that the wire is disconnected. If you cannot find the cause of the problem it is possible to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder. Interlocks for ignition devices An ignition interlock device (IID) is a vehicle breathalyzer that must be installed in your car as part of a criminal sanctions or a legal requirement. Ignition interlocks detect alcohol use disorder in drivers by measuring their breath prior to when the engine of the vehicle can be started. If the IID determines the driver's alcohol content is higher than the permitted limit, a warning horn will sound and the lights will flash, so that the vehicle is stopped and the driver can test again. Ignition interlocks are an excellent tool for people with alcohol use disorders, as they require that the person blow into a mouthpiece prior beginning the car. They are small and subtle, so they can be concealed away from the view of others to avoid attracting attention. Ignition interlocks can be leasing, not bought and the price ranges from $60-90 a month. The ignition switch and cylinder are the main electrical components that control your vehicle. The ignition will not work in the event that one of these components is damaged or worn. If you're experiencing one or more of these issues, it's crucial to have them fixed in the shortest time possible. If you are unable to get your vehicle to start, try putting the key in Park or neutral 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 a relatively easy task that can be accomplished using a steering wheel puller or GM key removal tool that you can lease through AutoZone's loan-a tool service for free.