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

Have you ever experienced that moment when sitting in your car and can’t get the engine to start? Whether you’re in a hurry or just trying to get through the day, car key issues are a common annoyance for many drivers. The good news is all automotive problems can be fixed. Some even have simple solutions you can try yourself before seeking professional help. However, it’s also important to know when the problem is more complex and requires professional attention.

Keep reading, and you’ll find practical steps to troubleshoot common car key issues and get back on the road quickly.

Common Reasons Your Car Key Won't Turn

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.

Check for Simple Fixes First

Before assuming something is seriously wrong, try a few simple troubleshooting steps first. You’d be surprised how often these quick fixes may work.

Steering Wheel Lock: If your steering wheel locks, it can also lock the ignition. This happens when you turn the wheel too far to one side when you shut off the car. Try wiggling the steering wheel left and right while turning the key. This should unlock the wheel and the ignition and let you start the car.
Try Another Key: If you have a spare key, try that. Sometimes, a key gets worn out from use, and a less-used spare key will work fine. Swapping out the key is often a quick fix for ignition issues.
Lubrication: Dirt or debris in the keyhole can prevent the key from turning. A quick spray of graphite lubricant into the keyhole might fix the problem. Avoid oil-based lubricants like WD-40, as they attract dirt and can cause more problems down the road.

Keyless Entry Systems: What to Do When They Fail

If you drive a modern vehicle with a keyless entry system, things get a bit trickier when the key fob stops working. Here are a few things to try:

Replace the Battery: Key fobs rely on small batteries to function. If your key fob suddenly stops working, the battery may be dead. Try replacing it and see if that resolves the issue.
Reprogram the Key: Sometimes, key fobs lose their connection to the car’s computer system. If this happens, you may need to reprogram the key, which usually involves a simple process outlined in your owner’s manual.
Backup Start Feature: Many vehicles with keyless entry have a backup way to start the car even if the key fob is dead. Check your manual for specific instructions on how to start your car without the key fob’s help.

When to Call a Locksmith

Sometimes, no matter how many simple fixes you try, the key just won’t budge. That’s when it’s time to call an automotive locksmith.

If your key is visibly damaged or too worn to function properly, a locksmith can cut a new key or reprogram a fob for you.

When it comes to issues inside the ignition lock cylinder, automotive locksmiths have the tools and expertise to either repair or replace it without damaging the rest of your car’s components.

For smart keys and key fobs, a locksmith can help reprogram or replace malfunctioning electronics, saving you a trip to the dealership.

At Sure Lock & Key, we offer a wide spectrum of automotive locksmith services, so whatever the issue is, we’ll quickly get you back on the road.

Prevent Future Problems with Regular Maintenance

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.

Summing Up

Ignition issues can be frustrating, but they’re not the end of the world. Whether the problem is with the key, the ignition cylinder, or even the car’s battery, there are often simple fixes that can get you back on the road quickly. However, if things get more complicated, don’t hesitate to call a professional locksmith. Sure, Lock & Key is always ready to assist you, offering 24/7 service to keep you moving, no matter the issue.

Remember, a little prevention can save you from bigger problems down the road, so keep your ignition system in good shape with regular maintenance.

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