If you have your car key stuck in the ignition, don’t worry. There are several fixes that you can try before taking it to a mechanic. In this blog post, we will outline five of the most common methods for removing your car key stuck in the ignition.
Keep in mind that some of these methods may not work with all vehicle models and will require you to call Locksmith Tacoma for expert assistance.
Let’s dive in!
Over time it’s really common for dirt and debris to build up and clog the inside of the ignition lock cylinder. You’ll probably start to notice an increase in resistance to insert the key, and not long thereafter you will start to have difficulty removing the key. It’s best not to ignore this sign.
The reason you have a car key stuck in the ignition could be because your car key is damaged. Any major damage or bend should be clear to the eye, but more minor wear may not be so obvious.
An obvious bend in the key can be straightened out with a pair of pliers, but worn teeth or a major bend in the key will warrant replacement.
If your car ignition cylinder is worn or damaged, it can be difficult to start your car or insert and remove the key. If the cylinder is damaged, the key may not stay in place and the car may not start. There are a few things you can do to repair a damaged ignition cylinder. You can try replacing the cylinder. If it’s required you might need to replace the entire ignition system. If you need to replace the ignition system, it is important to have it done as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your car.
A stuck key is a common problem, and there are a few things you can do to prevent it from happening. By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that your keys will always turn smoothly in the ignition cylinder.
First, make sure to maintain and clean the ignition cylinder. Regular lubrication and cleaning will help to keep it in good condition. If the cylinder gets dirty or starts to rust, it can cause the key to get stuck. You can clean the key cylinder using compressed air, an electrical cleaner, or some rubbing alcohol. Once clean don’t forget to follow up with an appropriate automotive lubricant.
Never wait for a problem to get worse. Everyone knows the old saying ‘prevention is better than a cure’, the same applies to car keys and car maintenance. If you notice a problem get it fixed or have the parts replaced early, before it becomes a bigger, more expensive problem or leaves you stranded somewhere.
A persistent problem with a key that won’t turn might mean it’s time to get an expert opinion. Be sure to have a professional locksmith from Locksmith Tacoma double-check everything so you can be sure the problems aren’t major enough to warrant a new ignition cylinder. They’ll also be able to answer any related questions you might have.
Another thing to keep in mind is the condition of your keys. If they’re bent or damaged, they’re more likely to get stuck in the ignition, thereby causing preventable damage. Make sure to check your keys regularly and replace them if necessary.
To make your keys last longer, don’t keep too many heavy items on your key ring. Once your key is in the key cylinder this extra weight will contribute to gradually bending the key, and eventually the tumblers in the ignition cylinder will get misaligned over time. You can source a replacement car key from your local locksmith, from your car dealership, or from a specialist hardware store.
All of this information may leave you with many more questions.
Here are three of the most common follow-up questions we receive.
If your key gets stuck in the ignition once, it’s likely that it will continue to happen unless you deal with it. It can be a sign of a larger issue. It’s best to have the problem diagnosed by a professional to ensure that your car is running smoothly.
If the key is stuck in the ignition and won’t turn off, there are a few things that can be done. First, check to see if the key turns to the “off” position. If it can, then gently turn it back and forth until it comes loose. If the key cannot be turned to the “off” position, then try turning the steering wheel back and forth while holding the key in place. This may loosen the key enough to allow it to be turned to the “off” position. If neither of these methods work, then the next step is to remove the battery cable from the negative terminal. This will disable the electrical system and allow the key to be removed. Finally, if all else fails, then the ignition switch will need to be replaced.
A car with automatic transmission can have all the same ignition problems as any other car. The key or cylinder could be worn or damaged or it could be dirty causing the key to get stuck. However, another possibility which is solely seen in cars with automatic transmission, is that the shift interlock solenoid is not working properly. This solenoid is responsible for keeping the key from being turned when the car is in gear, and if it fails, the key can become stuck. Sometimes the shifter gets stuck in between gears and your won’t allow the key to be released.
While WD-40 is often praised as a versatile lubricant, it is not recommended for use in car ignition cylinders. WD-40 is designed to displace water, and while this can help to prevent rust, it can also interfere with the electrical components in an ignition cylinder. If WD-40 is used in an ignition cylinder, it can cause problems with starting the engine, and it may also damage the cylinder itself. For these reasons, it is best to stick to products that are specifically designed for use in car ignitions. There are many high-quality lubricants on the market that will not cause any damage to your car’s ignition system.