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

Ignition lock failure is not a common occurrence, but it can happen. This is usually apparent when you get into your vehicle, insert the key, and the ignition will not turn to start. In older vehicles, your key ignition system is entirely mechanical, from the lock cylinder all the way until the cylinder activates the ignition switch. On modern cars with keys, most are equipped with chip-keys that are theft deterrents and must be properly mated to the car through software usually only available at the dealership. To learn more about “my key is stuck” problems, read on!

Why Won’t Your Key Turn in Your Ignition?

Wondering why your key won’t turn in the ignition? For many vehicles, once you remove the key, the steering wheel, if turned or bumped, will lock. This is made as a theft deterrent. Many folks though panic if they accidentally lock the wheel when leaving the car, then find the ignition appears to be locked when they re-insert the key and try to start it. To overcome this is simple – grab the wheel with one hand and wiggle back and forth while attempting to turn the key. The steering wheel will quickly unlock and the car will start.

If your car is not in park or neutral, you may not be able to turn the key. Even if the car is in the park, manipulate the shifter a little bit to make sure the car really is in this gear. Then, try to turn the key again.

How Do You Remove an Ignition Cylinder When the Key Won’t Turn?

On older vehicles pre-2000, most ignition lock sets operated and installed in much the same ways, with some variations. Disconnect the battery and remove the airbag from the steering wheel next. You will need to remove the steering wheel in most cases, which will involve a steering wheel puller, and in the case of most GM vehicles from the 1970’s all the way into the 2000s, you’ll need a lock plate remover.

If you have more questions about your ignition for your vehicle, give us a call at The German Auto Doctor.