Can A Locksmith Fix My Ignition?
Tyler Smith • Jun 21, 2021
A professional locksmith can fix your car's ignition.
Yes, a locksmith can fix your car's ignition.
Key won't turn in ignition When you go to insert your key into the ignition and it's stuck and won't turn, it means that your car ignition lock cylinder is stuck and will prevent you from starting your car. This can happen for several reasons. Your key may be old and worn out, no longer able to insert properly and in the correct position with the lock or ignition. Worn switch contacts, temperature problems, or broken springs; can all cause the ignition switch to fail, preventing you from starting your car. If you're on the road, a poor ignition switch could be dangerous in that your engine could shut off while driving.
If this isn't your area of comfort or expertise, you can call a professional Locksmith. If you're comfortable, there are several things that you can do before you call.
GO TO YOUR DEALER Ask the nearest dealership (remember to bring your car registration and your ID) to make a mechanical key. A mechanical key is a regular key without the transponder chip. It's possible that the key you are using isn't operating properly because it is worn out and needs replacing. You just may discover that the problem isn't with your ignition, but with the key. When you get the new key, try turning your ignition. If it's still stuck, try jiggling the key to jostle to tumbler within to move.
LUBRICATE THE IGNITION For ignition switches, we recommend a product called Tri-Flow superior lubricant. If you only have access to a more commonly used lubricant called WD40, you can use that. However, WD40 does collect dust and debri and may gum up your lock even further.
BUMP THE KEY. The idea behind bumping the key is to try to get the tumbler within the ignition to move just slightly. That may be all it takes to at least get your car started and drive it to the right service provider or to make it more possible for a mobile locksmith to arrive and assist you. In order to bump the ignition lock you will need to spray Tri-Flow inside the ignition lock cylinder then insert the mechanical key part way into the ignition lock cylinder and, carefully "bump" the rest of the key into the ignition lock cylinder using something that can deliver a good burst of force. preferably something that has a rubber surface so you can avoid any unnecessary damage. In most cases, a jammed ignition lock cylinder is the result of one or two misaligned wafers that are stuck inside the cylinder thus, preventing the lock from turning. If you bump a lock cylinder a few times it can help to release the jammed wafers, and allow the ignition to turn again.
DON'T TURN THE VEHICLE OFF (if you can avoid it!)
It's easy for the ignition to slip right back into misalignment if you turn the vehicle off. If you got it started, leave it running to make it possible for your trusted locksmith to complete the necessary repairs or replacements.
REPLACE OR REPAIR YOUR IGNITION
If your ignition got stuck in the first place, it is a sign that it's worn out and needs repair or replacing. We recommend that you call a trusted locksmith to be assured that it's done properly. And as we said earlier, this is not a replacement or repair that you should delay. You don't want to get caught in the situation mentioned above and have your car engine turn off in the middle of the highway due to a malfunctioning ignition switch.
If the above suggestionsfails and you are unable to turn the key in the ignition, you'll need to call a professional locksmith to help you. A locksmith can do all of the above for you, if you don't feel confident to try the techniques discussed. Ty's 303 Locksmith will help you with all your locksmith needs.