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Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working An ignition lock is a security measure that prevents your car from starting unless you have the original key. It gets triggered when you use the wheel for assistance when getting into or out of your vehicle or touch it when parked. It could also be caused through theft or vandalism. If you're having difficulty turning your key, these simple fixes may help: The ignition switch The ignition switch is a small part of your car that is vital to driving it. It's the first things you do on your car and is also the one that activates all the other systems in the car too. So when it doesn't work, it can be a huge issue. Wear and tear is the main reason for a car ignition switch breaking. It could happen over time, particularly when you have a lot of other things on your keychain that weigh it down. You can avoid this by using a separate keys for your home and car and by reducing the weight on your keys. Another cause is mechanical problems. It may be difficult to insert or remove the key if the ignition cylinder is not aligned correctly. If this happens, you will need to replace it. Your ignition switch could also be failing due to an electrical problem. You might notice an unpleasant smell or burning when you try to start your vehicle. If this happens it is important to get it repaired as soon as you can to avoid 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 re-starting the engine. This typically indicates that you're applying too much pressure on the ignition switch, or the key isn't working properly. You can try lubricating the lock inside the second case to see if it aids. This will release any dirt particles that could be preventing the key from turning, so you can try it again. You can also try a silicone-based lubricant that will help to prevent dirt from building up within the lock. If you still have trouble try wiggle the key and then inserting it again. The lock cylinder The ignition lock cylinder of automobiles is the part that has a mechanical structure that keys are placed to allow the vehicle to start the car. The pins in the cylinder can move up and down allowing the key to move in and out. The pins are fixed by wafer tumblers. Over time the tumblers could wear out or even break and stop the key from turning. The cylinder may eventually fail which could result in the battery of your car dying and other problems. The most common type is the cylindrical lock. The outer shell is made of cylindrical hole that houses the plug. The shell that covers the outer is typically made of steel, whereas the plug is usually made of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks can be found with a range of pins, which permit them to lock or unlock in various ways. Some come with additional security features, such as a snap line or additional pins that protect against bumping locks and other types of pick-and-pick. While it is possible to fix the cylinder of a lock that is difficult to work using graphite or WD-40 these solutions usually don't work for very long. It is recommended to replace the ignition lock cylinder. This can be done by taking the old one out of your vehicle and then replacing it with a new one. Keys will need to be replaced for a new cylinder. Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles come with electronic locks that are more expensive to change. It is essential that the process of replacing an ignition cylinder be performed 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 negative battery cable. This is essential to avoid an accidental airbag deployment. It is also recommended to disable any airbag system if your vehicle is equipped with one. It is crucial to follow all factory repair instructions. You'll have to reset the anti-theft code after installing the new ignition lock. This will prevent your car being stolen. It could require a specific tool. The crucial If your key is turning but does not start the car, it could indicate that your ignition lock isn't functioning. This is a tiny but important part 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. Over time the key could damage or wear out the wafer tumblers in the lock cylinder, making it hard to turn. You can fix the ignition problem in your car by employing a few basic troubleshooting techniques. Make sure that your key is in the proper place and that the indicator is pointed towards the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it could cause the engine to stop being started and a quick check with your dealer may be necessary to figure out the root of the problem. You can also play with the ignition key, but be careful not to apply too much force or pressure. This could cause tiny damage to the wafer tumblers which is preventing it from turning. If this fails, you can try making the lock cylinder lubricated with an lubricant made of silicone to get it moving again. You can locate these kinds of lubricants at the local auto parts store, but you should also be sure to use a quality one that prevents dirt from building up and causing problems in the future. If nothing else works you'll need to take off the ignition cylinder and replace it with a new one. This is a easy process that many DIYers can follow with the help of online guides or an auto repair manual. If you've been arrested recently for DUI or DWI your state might require that you install an ignition interlock (IID). These devices are intended to stop drunk driving by forcing drivers to breathe into a tube prior to beginning their vehicle. The device is installed by a company that is certified, such as Intoxalock and LifeSafer. The wiring In many automobiles, the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected by wires. When you insert the key into the ignition, current runs through these wires to activate 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're unable to pinpoint the problem, it may be necessary to replace the ignition switch or cylinder. Ignition Interlock Devices An ignition interlock device (IID) is a car breathalyzer which must be fitted in your vehicle as part of a criminal sanction or legal obligation. Ignition interlocks identify alcohol use impairment 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 allowed limit the warning horn will sound and the lights will flash to indicate that the vehicle can be stopped and the driver may test again. Ignition interlocks are a great tool for people with alcohol use disorders, as they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior to beginning the car. They are small and discrete, so they can be concealed away from view to avoid drawing attention. The cost of ignition interlocks is $60-90 per month. They are not purchased in bulk. The ignition switch and the ignition cylinder are connected to control all of the electrical components in your car. If any of these parts are damaged or worn out the ignition won't start. If car ignition key replacement experiencing any of these issues it is crucial to get them fixed as soon as you can. If you're unable to get your vehicle to start, try putting the key in Park or neutral, and then 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 typically a simple task, but it will require a steering wheel puller or a GM key removal kit and both can be rented from AutoZone's loan-a tool program for no cost.