Evaluating Ignition Key Trouble

When you hop in your car and attempt to turn the key in the ignition but nothing happens, you might immediately panic trying to figure out what the problem could be. Fortunately, this isn’t uncommon. When this occurs, there is usually an easy fix to resolve the problem. There are three primary reasons why you might experience a problem with your ignition. Knowing some of these common things might help you relax the next time this happens to you.

Three common reasons your key will not turn:

1. Supporting components
2. Ignition lock cylinder
3. The key

Remember, if you attempt to resolve the matter on your own, the break should be applied.

Supporting Components

Steering wheel – After removing the key from the ignition, the steering wheel will lock. Sometimes this lock will get stuck and this will prevent the key from turning. Simply by shacking the steering wheel while trying to remove the key can relieve the pressure. However, if you do not want to experience a serious ignition problem, it might be best to allow a professional locksmith, such as, Locksmith in Roswell, to handle the job for you. They often offer mobile services, which means they can come to your location to provide you with services. Many Roswell, GA locksmiths offer this service.

Gear selector – In some cases, the key will not turn unless it is in neutral or park. If it is in the park gear, shake to make sure the shifter is in the right position in order for the key to proper fit. This will only work if the vehicle is automatic.

Battery – When the batter is dead, it may prevent your key from turning. This is usually a problem found with high-end cars. You can check the battery life to determine if this is the problem.

Ignition lock cylinder

Jammed springs – The spring inside the key cylinder may be the problem. Tapping the key ignition with a tack hammer might loosen the springs. It is actually the vibration from tapping it that loosens up the jammed springs, not the force. Once they have become loose, you can try turning it again to see if tapping it helped.

Obstruction – If there is something inside the key cylinder that is blocked, it will not allow you to turn the ignition. A qualified locksmith would look inside the key cylinder to see if something is blocked so that they can tell whether or not the key needs to be replaced. This is typically the case if they recognize any metal debris. If the ignition lock cylinder can be cleaned, they will need to have on safety glasses so that debris does not get in their eyes. They clean the lock cylinder by using compressed air. When the debris is removed, the key should work gain. If it doesn’t, it may be necessary to replace the key.

Key

Bent key – If you place a bent key in the cylinder, it will not properly line up. When the key doesn’t line up with the cylinder, your car will not start. If your key looks bent, try to make it straight before placing it inside the ignition. This can be done easily with a non-metal hammer. You don’t want to use anything that could damage the key. Use something hard enough to work but not so hard that it could make the key bend even more. Gently tap the key to straighten it then try placing it in the ignition to see if it will turn the ignition.

Worn key – Having a worn key is a problem that a lot of people experience. When you have a worn car key, the pins inside the lock cylinder will not fit properly and tit will be impossible for the car to start. Rather than using a worn key, try using your spare key instead. It is always best to have a spare key for those occasions that you have lost your key or your key will not work. You will need your cars VIN number in order to have another key made. In some cases, there is a key code instead of a VIN number. This is usually found with newer model cars. The key code numbers should then be given to the locksmith to make you a new key.

Inserting the wrong key – Sometimes, without looking, you may insert the incorrect key. It may take you a while before you realize you are not using the correct key. This is something that occurs when there are several car keys on your key ring. Since keys look similar, one can easily be mistaken for another. Double check your key to make sure you’re using the right key for the car you wish to drive. Sounds simple enough but you’ll be surprised at how often this happens.

Dirty key – Sometimes cleaning a dirty key can help turn the ignition. You can clean a dirty key by using a cotton swab and a small amount of rubbing alcohol. This may help to clean whatever is stuck to your key. After cleaning, try starting your car.

Some people are opposed to trying anything other than calling on the services of a local Roswell, Georgia locksmith to help them with their ignition problems. While we certainly do not object to your being ‘safe’ rather than ‘sorry’, there are some things that are quit simple to do on your own to solve the problem. However, if you are not comfortable with any of these things and would rather use the services of a professional locksmith, we wouldn’t object.

We would never recommend hitting your ignition too hard, turning the key in the ignition too much to loosen the springs or jamming anything in the ignition lock. When you have ignition key trouble, we would highly recommend that you proceed with caution. The last thing you want is an ignition problem that is made worse by your efforts to relieve yourself of the problem you are experiencing. This could be a costly repair job.

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