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Car Keys Won’t Turn In Ignition? Here’s What To Do
Or, are you having trouble with the key not turning in ignition while steering wheel is not locked?
Before calling an emergency car locksmith, take a look at this video tutorial and give yourself a try.
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Have you experienced the struggle when your car keys won’t turn inside the ignition?
Inserting your car keys into the ignition and refuses to turn them on can be very frustrating.
And it usually happens at the most inconvenient time.
Apparently, as a car owner, you may consider trying all possible methods to turn your key into the ignition.
However, after many attempts, your ignition switch fails and unable to start.
This unexpected situation can have a significant effect on your car or even worse, leave you stranded.
This car key ignition problem may be caused by a variety of factors, including the key itself, ignition switch, or your ignition cylinder.
What is the proper course of action?
To minimize the potential risk of your ignition issues, consult your licensed auto locksmith in Mississauga and get your keys tested for efficiency.
You can contact EZ Car Locksmith in Mississauga to discuss your car key ignition problem.
But before calling a car locksmith, here are some steps to look for to define and solve the problem:
Car Key Ignition Causes and Solution
The most common causes of your car key not turning in the ignition are components connected to the ignition mechanism.
Fortunately, they are also the easiest to locate and repair.
1. User or Driver’s Error
Check if Steering Wheel is locked – In certain cars removing the key prevents the steering wheel from turning.
As a result, your steering wheel gets locked and becomes stuck.
Try to rotate the steering wheel left to right while switching on the key into the ignition.
This will release the pressure on the lock to turn on the key.
Incorrect Shifting Gear Position – Some car models have a mechanism that prevents starting the car if the shifting gear is not set in park mode or neutral.
Check your gear if it’s set on the park or neutral. This issue is only applicable to those who have an automatic vehicle.
2. Car Key Issues
Car Keys are Worn Out – If your car key is worn out, this would prevent the pins within the cylinder to meld correctly and start the car.
You can use your spare key to test if the other worn-out key is causing the issue.
If you misplaced your spare key, it’s best to contact your car dealer and request a replacement car key with the appropriate code.
Bent Car Keys – A bent car key may still insert and reach the ignition cylinder but it’s not accurately matched up to start the ignition.
Inspect the key if it is bent and softly flatten it with a hammer.
Use one that would not break the key, as hammering risks causing further damage.
Dirty or Stained Keys – If your key is filthy, it cannot function properly and prevent it from lining up correctly inside the ignition cylinder.
Check your car key for any signs of dust and dirt then scrub the key with rubbing alcohol.
Apply a small amount of WD-40 into the ignition.
The necessary lubrication can often be sufficient to allow the key to slip out even while gently twitching it.
3. Car Key Ignition Component Issues
The issue with the Ignition Lock Cylinder – If something is creating an obstacle within the ignition cylinder, use compressed air to clean out the debris.
You may try squeezing a silicon-based lubricant inside the ignition cylinder.
The lubricant can remove any gravel or residue that is causing the ignition to stick or prevents the key from turning.
However, if it does not resolve the problem, the cylinder itself could have been affected and would be difficult to repair.
You’ll need to consult with a professional auto locksmith if it is necessary to replace the entire ignition cylinder.
Jammed Springs Inside the Cylinder – Troubles with the locks or springs will make it hard to switch the key.
If this occurs, use a small stick tool to softly tap the key ignition to remove any trapped pins or springs.
Keep in mind not to strike too hard. The sound of the tap, not the weight, should release any stuck pins or springs.
After that, try inserting the key and turn the switch.
Why is my key not turning in the ignition?
There are a few potential reasons why your key might not be turning in the ignition. One possibility is that your steering wheel is locked. If you try to turn the key while the wheel is locked, it won’t budge. To unlock the steering wheel, you’ll need to use the release lever located on the driver’s side of the steering column.
Another potential reason why your key might not be turning is that there’s something blocking the keyhole. This could be dirt, dust, or even snow. If you can’t see anything blocking the keyhole, try wiggling the steering wheel back and forth while you turn the key. This might help to dislodge whatever is blocking the keyhole.
If neither of these solutions work, then it’s possible that there’s an issue with your ignition switch. This is a more serious problem that will require the help of a professional mechanic. Ignition switches can fail due to wear and tear, so it’s important to have them checked regularly.
What does it mean when the steering wheel doesn’t lock?
If the steering wheel doesn’t lock, it means that the car is in “neutral.” This means that it’s not locked into any particular position and can be turned freely. When the steering wheel is locked, it means that the car is in “park” and will not move unless you use the power steering.
Will a car start if the steering wheel is not locked?
It depends. If the car is in “neutral,” then it will start regardless of whether or not the steering wheel is locked. However, if the car is in “park” and the steering wheel isn’t locked, it will still move freely. This could cause damage to your car or potentially injure someone. It’s always best to lock the steering wheel before starting the car.
How to Fix a Car Key That Won’t Turn in the Ignition: Steering Wheel Not Locked
If your car key won’t turn in the ignition, it could be because the steering wheel is not locked. This is a common problem, and there are several ways to fix it. In this blog post, we will discuss three methods that you can use to unlock the steering wheel and get your car started!
Method One: The first method is to use a steering wheel lock. This is a device that you can purchase at most auto parts stores. It is designed to fit over the steering wheel and prevent it from turning. To use this method, simply put the steering wheel lock on the steering wheel and turn it until it locks into place. Then, try to turn the key in the ignition. If it still won’t turn, move on to the next method.
Method Two: The second method is to use a screwdriver. This is a bit more of a temporary fix, but it will still get the job done. Take a flathead screwdriver and insert it into the top of the steering wheel. Then, twist the screwdriver until the steering wheel is unlocked. Once it is unlocked, you should be able to turn the key in the ignition and start your car.
Method Three: The third method is to use a coat hanger. This is a bit of an unconventional method, but it can definitely work in a pinch. Take a coat hanger and straighten it out as much as possible. Then, insert the coat hanger into the keyhole of the steering wheel. Twist it until the steering wheel is unlocked. Once it is unlocked, you should be able to turn the key in the ignition and start your car.
How do you unlock the ignition switch?
If you are having trouble turning the key in the ignition, it might be because there is something blocking the keyhole. This could be dirt, dust, or even snow. If you can’t see anything blocking the keyhole, try wiggling the steering wheel back and forth while you turn the key. This might help to dislodge whatever is blocking the keyhole.
Conclusion
If you’re still having trouble turning in the keys after trying all diagnostic efforts, we suggest calling an expert auto locksmith for a more detailed diagnosis.
Look no further! EZ Car Locksmith can aid in the diagnosis of the issue.
Thereafter, we’ll handle all of the required repairs for you.
EZ Car Locksmith provides mobile locksmith services 24/7 and can immediately dispatch technicians to your location to repair your ignition lock and key issues.
We assure you that our services are dependable and secure.
Give us a call right now and we’ll be there to assist you!
