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Why Your Car's Ignition Lock Isn't Working An ignition lock is a security measure that stops your car from starting unless you have the original key. It is triggered by using the steering wheel to support you when getting into or out of your car, or touching it while parked. It could also be caused through vandalism or theft. You can repair your key if you're having trouble turning it. The ignition switch The ignition switch is a small part of your car that is essential to drive it. It's one of the first things you do on your vehicle and also activates nearly all the other systems in the car as well. If it fails to function, it can be a major problem. Wear and tear is the primary cause of a car ignition switch failing. This is a possibility with time, particularly if your keychain is weighed down by other items. You can avoid this by having a separate key for your car and house and by reducing the weight on your keys. Mechanical problems are another cause. It may be difficult to remove or insert the key if the ignition cylinder is not aligned properly. If ignition lock cylinder repair cost is the case you'll need it replaced. In addition to these mechanical problems Your ignition switch could also be failing because of an electrical issue. You may notice the smell of smoke or burning when you try to start your vehicle. It is essential to replace it immediately to avoid further damage. The ignition switch may be stuck in the ON position. This is an security feature that stops anyone from taking out your key and re-starting the engine. Usually, this means you've put too high pressure on the ignition switch or that your key isn't functioning correctly. You can try lubricating your lock in the second case to see if this aids. This will release any dirt particles that may be preventing the key from turning, so you can try again. You can also use a silicone-based lubricant to keep dirt from accumulating inside the lock. If you still have trouble trying to move the key and inserting it again. The lock cylinder The ignition lock cylinder in a car is the mechanical component in which the key is inserted to start the vehicle. 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. As time passes the tumblers could wear out or even break and prevent the key from turning. Eventually, the cylinder can fail completely, resulting in dead batteries and other issues with the car's start. Cylinder locks are the most popular type of car lock. They consist of an outer shell that has a cylindrical hole in which the plug is housed. The outer shell is usually constructed of steel, while the plug is usually made of bronze or brass. Cylinder locks come with different pins that permit them to be locked or unlocked in a variety of ways. Certain cylinder locks come with additional security measures, like snap-line pins or additional pins to protect against bumping of the lock. While it is possible to finesse a difficult lock cylinder 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 removing the old lock out of your vehicle and replacing it with a brand new one. Keys will need to be replaced to replace the cylinder. Standard systems usually cost less than $300 to replace the ignition lock cylinder. Certain vehicles have electronic locks that are more expensive to change. The procedure for replacing the ignition cylinder should be carried out by a certified professional. This is because it involves removal of components that could affect the supplemental restraint system (airbags). You'll need to unplug the negative battery cables before you can replace the battery. This is essential to avoid the airbag from accidentally being deployed. It is also important to disable the airbag system if your vehicle is equipped with it. Follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer. After installing the new ignition lock cylinder you'll need to reset the anti-theft code. This will stop your car from being stolen. It could require a special tool. The most important If you turn your key but it won't start your car, this could be a sign that your ignition lock isn’t functioning properly. This small but vital part ensures that only the correct key is used to start your vehicle. It's a part made of metal that works with an electronic component to “read” anti-theft code to enable your vehicle to start. Over time the key may cause damage or wear to the wafer tumblers within the lock cylinder, making it difficult to turn. While the replacement of a key is often the best solution however, you can also attempt some basic troubleshooting to help resolve the ignition issue of your car at home. Make sure your key is in the proper position and that the indicator is pointed toward the P (Park slot) on the shifter. If not, it may cause the vehicle to not start. It is possible to check with your dealer to determine what is the cause of the issue. Another option is to press the the ignition switch, but be cautious not to apply too excessive pressure or force. This will help take care of any small damage to the wafer tumblings that prevents it from rotating. If this doesn't help, you can try lubricating it using the use of a silicone lubricant. You can find these types of fluids at your local auto parts retailer, but you must ensure that you are using the best one that will stop dirt from building up and causing more problems in the future. If all else fails you must take off the ignition and replace it with a brand new one. This is a simple process that DIYers can easily do with the help of online guides or auto repair manuals. If you've recently been arrested for the crime of DUI or DWI the state you live in might require you to install an ignition interlock device (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 is installed by an approved service provider, such as Intoxalock or LifeSafer. The wiring In many automobiles, the ignition switch and lock cylinder are connected by wires. When you insert your key into the ignition the current flows through these wires and activates all of the electrical systems inside your vehicle. If the electrical system is not functioning or the switch is stuck in the on position, it could be due to a wire being disconnected. If you are unable to determine the reason behind the problem it is possible to replace the ignition switch or the cylinder. Interlock devices for ignition A breathalyzer is an ignition interlock device that needs to be installed in your vehicle to satisfy an enforceable or criminal obligation. Ignition interlocks are made to detect alcohol use disorders by analyzing the breath of a driver before the engine of the vehicle is able to start. If the IID determines that the driver's alcohol content is higher than the permitted limit the horn will sound, and/or the lights will flash to indicate that the vehicle is stopped and the driver may take a second test. Ignition interlocks are a great device for people suffering from alcohol-related disorders, since they require the user to blow into a mouthpiece prior beginning the car. They are small and subtle, so they can be concealed from sight to avoid drawing attention. Interlocks for ignition are leaseable, not bought outright and the price can range from $60 to 90 per month. The ignition switch and cylinder control all electrical components in your vehicle. The ignition won't work when one of these components is damaged or worn. If you're experiencing one of these issues, it's crucial to get them repaired in the shortest time possible. If you're having difficulty starting your vehicle try putting the key into neutral or park, and then turning it. If this doesn't work, then you might need to remove the battery and take out the airbag to access the ignition switch. This is a fairly easy task that can be done with a steering-wheel puller or GM key removal tool that you can lease through AutoZone's loan-a tool service for free.