Car Key Ignition Problems

When the ignition lock cylinder has issues it can cause problems with powering on and starting the vehicle.

Car key ignition problems.

Problems with the ignition lock cylinder your lock cylinder isn t operating properly the inside of your ignition lock has several rows of spring loaded pins that match up with your key when you insert it. They ve become a must have convenience for many consumers but you need. Worn ignition switch contacts temperature problems or broken springs can all cause the ignition switch to fail preventing you from starting your car. This is what allows the key to turn and start the vehicle.

If your car key does not work when it is inserted into the ignition it does not necessarily mean that your car key is faulty or damaged. In other cases the problem may lie with your ignition chamber itself. Keyless ignition systems let you start your car s engine without the hassle of fumbling for a key in your pocket or purse. On the road poor ignition switch contacts could shut the engine off while driving which could be dangerous.

This will allow the steering wheel and the key to turn. If you keep your car key in your pocket it can often cause lint and other materials to stick to it. An obstruction inside the key cylinder will not allow the key to turn the ignition properly. If the key is broken and one part of it slides out of the ignition then you will know that the problem probably stems from the key.

While applying light pressure to the key wiggle the steering wheel back and forth until the lock disengages. Even then it is not exactly clear cut. It could even be something as simple as debris blocking your ignition chamber. Look inside at the key cylinder with flashlight.

Sometimes this is a symptom of a much larger issue which might be damage to your car s ignition. If you put the car key in the ignition cylinder with these elements on it then it could cause the cylinder to become cluttered with debris. If you have not realized by now cars are moving mechanical components. There is always the possibility that your key broke off in the ignition because you were forcing it to turn in a broken ignition cylinder.

Perhaps the pins are misaligned or it s a fault in the electrical circuit that links the ignition chamber and car battery. Usually a faulty ignition lock cylinder will produce a few symptoms that can alert the driver of a potential issue. Wiggle the wheel back and forth while turning the key. Below are the two most common problems associated with the ignition lock cylinder and the key not turning.