Car Key Won’t Turn In Ignition: Reasons & Solutions

Key Points:

• Try pulling the key out slightly before turning it. Sometimes, pulling the key out just a tiny bit is enough to get it to turn.
• Gently wiggle the key back and forth as you turn the key to see if you can start the car.
• Try sliding the key in and out a few times to clear away any debris stuck in the ignition cylinder.

Unfortunately, our cars often decide to give up on us when we need them the most. One of the most common inconveniences is when the ignition key doesn’t turn. If this happens to you, the best thing to do is stay calm, in order to avoid causing further damage. Here are some simple ways to fix an ignition key that won’t turn. So, let’s take a look.

How Does An Ignition Key Work?

For most modern cars, ignition keys are symmetrical in their shape, so that drivers can insert them into the ignition either way round for greater ease. When the key is turned in its slot, a set of tumblers in the ignition are forced into a specific arrangement, enabling the key to rotate. The circuit then provides power to the starter motor, typically through a computer chip, which ultimately starts the engine by allowing the current to flow through the ignition system.

Why Won’t My Key Turn In My Car

There three main reasons why an ignition key will not turn. These include:

• Issues with related components
• Issues with the key itself
• Issues with the ignition lock cylinder

How To Fix Your Car Key Problem

If you are stuck with this problem, here are a few things you might want to try before you call the locksmith. The items are listed in order of effectiveness down below.

1. Check The Steering Wheel

The car steering is fitted with a safety feature that locks it once the key is removed. Sometimes, if you are rather unlucky, the steering wheel gets stuck in that position, which locks the car’s ignition. You can give the steering wheel a few jerks and check if the key turns on the ignition. If this works, you have just saved a few bucks on that repair. 

2. Check The Gear

The automatic transmission cars of today do not allow the key to turn on the ignition if the vehicle is not in neutral gear or park. It might be that your gear shift is not in the correct position, causing the ignition to malfunction. Just whack the gear shift, put it into place and then try turning that key again. 

3. Check the Battery

If you have a volt meter in your car kit, you can check if the car battery is still working. The advanced ignition system in new cars stops the car from turning on if the battery is dead. Either way, recharging and replacing the car key battery might work for you. 

If these help you fix the issue with your ignition, you dodged a bullet, and you should get your car to a mechanic or a locksmith and check for the underlying problem and fix it. Here are some more fixes if the problem is related to the ignition and the key. 

• Take that spare key out. The current key you use might be worn out, and taking that spare key out might fix the issue. If the spare key doesn’t work, it is possibly an ignition issue.
• Try a cleaning spray. Some dirt and debris between the wafers might obstruct the key from turning the ignition. A silicon-based spray might help you clean it and back it up and running again. 
• Shake things up. Try and wiggle the key in the lock but do it gently. Sometimes, there is minor damage; jamming due to debris or dirt and wiggling them might free them up enough to turn the ignition. In this case, do not remove the key before you reach the locksmith. 
• Give it a whack. This is your last resort after trying all the above ways to fix the dysfunctional ignition

FAQs – Key Won’t Turn In The Ignition

1. What Should I Do If My Key Won’t Turn In The Ignition?

1. Try Turning The Steering Wheel. The problem may not be with your ignition key at all – the steering wheel locking may be the thing causing issues. …
2. Wiggle The Key In The Ignition. …
3. Try Lubricating The Lock. …
4. Check The Gear Shift Or Battery. …
5. Get A New Car Key.

2. Why Is My Key Not Turning In My Car Door?

There are several reasons why a key might not turn in a car door lock. It could be due to a worn-out key, a damaged lock cylinder, or a problem with the keyway. Dirt and debris can also cause problems with the lock mechanism. In some cases, the issue might be with the key itself, such as a bent or damaged key

3. What To Do When Key Is Stuck In Ignition?

Here are three things you should do if your key is locked in the ignition:

1. Unlock The Steering Wheel. Many cars have a locking mechanism that gets activated when the steering wheel is turned too far to the left or right.
2. Jiggle Your Key. Use your left index finger to push down on your key cylinder. …
3. Shake The Gear Selector.

4. Why My Car Is Not Opening With Key?

Some common reasons behind your manual car key not working are a damaged lock cylinder, a worn-out key, a contaminated key hole, and a car lock needing lubricant.