What To Do When Your Key Is Stuck In The Ignition

There is still a chance that you can pull out your key in the ignition if it will not turn. Do not force the key out of the ignition if it refuses to come out easily. You could lose your key if you do not take action.

The keyed ignition system is easier to use than the push-button start system, which seems to invite fewer problems. It is always possible for something to go wrong when moving parts are involved. If the ignition key gets stuck in this situation, it’s possible to damage the vehicle.

What To Do When Your Key Is Stuck In The Ignition

There are times when it becomes stuck due to a minor problem, and other times when it becomes stuck because of a major problem that needs to be repaired. Here are some reasons why your key may be stuck and what you can do to fix it.

Understanding the Causes

The feeling of having your key stuck in the ignition can be very frustrating. An understanding of the common causes of a jammed key is crucial for resolving the issue. There are several common reasons for this, including:

A worn ignition cylinder – As a result of wear, the ignition cylinder, which interacts with the key, becomes increasingly difficult to remove and turn.
Misaligned steering column – As the steering wheel is turned, the ignition mechanism can be put under pressure, which makes it difficult to turn the key. The locking of the wheel usually occurs after the ignition is turned off after the wheel has been turned.
Damaged key – Common causes of lockouts include bent, worn, or damaged keys. Replace your worn or deformed key before it gets stuck if you notice any signs of wear.
Shifter not in park – When the car is not fully in park, the shifter interlock solenoid prevents the key from being removed.

My Key Is Stuck In The Ignition: What Should I Do Next?

A locked key in your ignition can be unlocked by doing these three things:

1. Unlock The Steering Wheel

It is common for cars to have a locking mechanism that activates when the steering wheel is turned too far to one side or the other. You cannot also remove your key using the mechanism. As soon as you feel that your wheel is no longer locked, you can turn your key again to release the locking mechanism.

2. Jiggle Your Key

To open your key cylinder, push down with the index finger on your left hand. As you jiggle your key with your right hand, your left hand should follow. You may be able to slide your key out of the cylinder when you loosen the springs and pins inside.

3. Shake The Gear Selector

The key must be removed from the ignition once your car is in park or neutral. It may happen that your car does not recognize the fact that you are parked or in neutral at times. The gear selector should be gently shaken in these cases. It may also be possible to revert your gear to the parking position.

A professional locksmith should be contacted if none of these methods work.

Why Does My Key Get Stuck In The Ignition?

Keys getting stuck in ignitions can happen for a number of reasons, including:

1. Your Car Is Not In Park Or Neutral.

In some cases, you might not be able to remove your key from the ignition if your car’s parking gear is not properly adjusted. You can remove your key from an ignition in a car with an automatic transmission by setting the gear shift to park. When you’re having trouble getting your key out of an ignition in a car with a manual transmission, try shifting to neutral. Ideally, you should be able to turn the key and slide it out of the ignition at this point.

2. Your Car’s Running In Accessory Mode.

There is an accessory mode on most hard-key cars that lets you activate your radio, power windows, and other features without turning on the engine. In most cases, you can activate the feature by turning your key one “click” beyond Off.

3. Your Battery Is Dead.

In the event that you continually hear clicking sounds when you turn your key, your battery may be dead. It may be difficult for you to remove your key in this situation.

4. There Is Debris On Your Key.

A key can become jammed in the ignition cylinder if debris accumulates on it. In the event that you had a replacement key made, minor imperfections can result in it becoming stuck in the ignition.

Your Ignition Cylinder Is Defective.

There is a great deal of wear and tear on ignition cylinders. They can develop issues with their internal mechanisms as they age. There is a possibility that you will not be able to remove your key from a defective ignition cylinder.

DIY Fixes

Trying a few quick DIY fixes before calling a professional can help you if your key gets stuck in the ignition.

Wiggle the steering wheel. An ignition tension can sometimes be caused by the steering wheel lock. The pressure can be released by gently pulling the wheel side to side while turning the key.
Check for obstructions – Make sure there are no foreign objects or debris in the keyway. You may have dust and dirt accumulating on your keychain over time, causing the key to become stuck, or another key may be jamming up the keychain.
Use graphite lubricant – A small amount of graphite lubricant should be applied to the key before it is turned on. If the ignition cylinder and the key are in close proximity, this will ease friction between them. Turn it back gently by wiggling it.
Move the shifter –You should run the gear shift from park to drive while your foot is on the brake. After the gearshift has been fully parked, the shift interlock will be released.

It is also possible to repair the problem by replacing the ignition cylinder or switch. Occasionally, keys can lock up because of damaged tumblers or bending keys that cannot be released. A couple of common tools will be needed to replace the cylinder, including:

Trim tools
Screwdrivers including Phillips and flathead
Torx screwdrivers
Graphite lubricant

There is a different process for replacing the steering column shrouds on every vehicle, but in general, you’ll need to remove the dash trim or the steering column shrouds. Install the new ignition switch or cylinder after disconnecting any electrical connections and unfastening the ignition switch or cylinder. It is necessary to purchase a new cylinder that is rekeyed to your existing key when replacing the old one; otherwise, you will have to carry two keys.

When to Seek Professional Help

Despite the fact that DIY solutions can resolve common issues, professional assistance can be needed in some cases.

A key replacement or ignition switch replacement may require programming if you have an anti-theft system on your vehicle. It will be necessary to contact a locksmith or dealership.
Do not attempt to repair your car yourself if you are not confident or if you are unable to determine what the problem is. Hire a trusted mechanic instead.

What To Do If Your Key Breaks In The Ignition

In the worst-case scenario, a broken key will prevent the car from starting. A key extractor tool or a professional locksmith are the two options you have when your key breaks.

The broken key piece can be removed from the ignition with the help of a key extractor tool. Compared to that, getting your broken key removed by a professional locksmith is a better option.

Last but not least, make sure your key is in good shape before you start your car. You are more likely to break your key inside the ignition if your key becomes damaged or dirty.

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FAQ

Why does my key get stuck in the ignition?

If you have a worn ignition cylinder, misaligned steering wheel, or damaged key, your key may become stuck in the ignition.

Can I use lubricants to fix a stuck key, or is it harmful?

The use of graphite lubricant to fix a stuck key in an ignition can be effective and is not harmful.

When my key gets stuck while I’m on the road, are there any temporary fixes?

If possible, use graphite lubricant or move the gearshift into park to fix a problem on the road.

When should I consider seeking professional help for a stuck key?

It is recommended to seek professional help if you fail to resolve the problem with DIY solutions or if the problem persists.

What preventive measures can I take to avoid key jamming in the future?

When turning off the ignition, keep the steering wheel straight and use graphite lubricant in order to avoid key jamming.