What To Do If Your Car Key Doesn’t Work In The Ignition

If you can’t turn your key, then obviously something is wrong. At this point, people usually start to panic. But believe us, there’s no need to worry. You can diagnose what has happened by yourself by using our recommendations because Sure Lock & Key is here to help with all the locksmith issues you may experience.

In general, there are three main reasons to consider if your key doesn’t turn in the ignition.

Ignition’s Elements

Every ignition consists of lots of components, but there are at least three of them you can check to define the problem. First of all, you need to know whether your car allows turning the ignition when the gear selector is in neutral in the park. If everything is alright here, let’s go further and check your car battery. In case it’s dead, you won’t be able to start the car.

The Key Itself

Sometimes, the ignition doesn’t work because the key isn’t right for the car. You were in a hurry and accidentally took your partner’s keys, for example. Very often, people call us because of ignition issues, but after our examination, we found that the key was the exact issue. It can be bent or worn out. Some of the latest car keys, like smart keys and card keys, may need reprogramming.

Lock cylinderThe ignition lock cylinder is also known as the key cylinder. If the above-mentioned car parts work as they should, then this may most likely be the culprit. First of all, you need to check if nothing is stuck there. It could be dirt from your key or some detail of the ignition. To be more precise, you can use a flashlight to see if there’s something inside. Aggressive turning leads to lots of issues with pins or wafers (depending on what ignition type your car is equipped with).

Check Battery Issues

A common reason for a key getting stuck in the ignition is battery problems. Ensure your vehicle’s battery is charged and functioning correctly, as low power levels can disrupt the ignition system. Consider replacing the battery if necessary.

Clean the Key and Ignition

Accumulated debris or dirt in the key or ignition can impede smooth movement. Our seasoned experts recommend regular cleaning for both the key and the ignition to maintain optimal functionality and prevent sticking issues.

Inspect for Damaged Elements

Examine both the key and the ignition for any visible damage. Bent or damaged keys, as well as a worn-out ignition, can contribute to the key getting stuck. Promptly handling these issues will eliminate potential risks and further complications.

Malfunctioning Lock Cylinder

If turning the key feels unusually difficult or gets stuck, it could indicate issues with the lock cylinder. Professional assistance is recommended to identify and manage these problems effectively before they escalate into serious breakages.

Still, if you experience ongoing issues or are unsure about the cause, seeking professional assistance is crucial for a comprehensive assessment and effective resolution.

Prevention is often better than cure. When it comes to your ignition, a little maintenance can go a long way in saving you from future problems.

Here are a few simple yet effective steps to follow:

• Keep Your Key Clean: Dirt and grime can accumulate on your car key. This, in turn, can transfer into the ignition lock over time. Make it a habit to clean your key every now and then to avoid unpleasant surprises in the future.
• Lubricate the Ignition Lock: Use a graphite-based lubricant to keep the ignition lock cylinder smooth. This approach prevents the pins or wafers inside the cylinder from jamming.
• Check Your Key: Car keys can wear out. If your key is bent, cracked, or worn out, get a replacement before it becomes a major problem.

Routine care can help extend the life of your ignition and save you the headache of unexpected issues down the road.