Key turns freely in the ignition but won’t start the vehicle. Accessory power remains on unless the battery is disconnected.
Went to start vehicle, key turned normally, acc power came on but car wouldn't start. Turned key to off position and acc power stayed on. Key now turns freely in the ignition and the only way to turn off the power is to disconnect the battery. Installed a new ignition lock cylinder and problem persists. if it's not the ignition as I had thought, what could be the problem?
My car has 150000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
The ignition switch or linkage to the switch is broken. The ignition switch needs to have the small linkage from the back side of the key lock cylinder to turn the switch to start and run the vehicle.
Have the ignition switch removed and inspect the linkage and switch to see if one or both switch and linkage needs replaced. If you need assistance with this, one of our mobile technicians would be happy to come to your location to diagnose the issue with your ignition and make the necessary repairs.
You will need a trained mechanic to work on the steering column of the vehicle with air bags due to the air bag system will need to be deactivated before service on the column switches.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
The most common reasons a Hyundai Santa Fe key won`t turn are a binding steering column/lock, an ignition switch issue, or a problem with the ignition key.
A car key stuck in the ignition that won`t release is usually because of a damaged/worn out car key or the ignition wafers have broken. The three common reasons for stuck car keys are as follows: Damaged Car Key – car keys can become bent, worn out & damaged causing the key to become stuck.
Try gently turning the steering wheel from right to left, while simultaneously turning the key carefully in the ignition. If this fails, try rocking the wheel instead, all while wiggling the key gently. Once the key turns, the steering wheel will unlock itself.
Your Key is Dirty Tape, glue, and other debris can cause your car key to get stuck in the ignition and can also make it difficult to turn the key to start the car. If this is your issue, pull the key out carefully while wiggling the steering wheel to release the tumblers and, hopefully, pull the debris out too.
Reasons a Hyundai Sonata Key Won`t Turn. The most common reasons a Hyundai Sonata key won`t turn are a binding steering column/lock, an ignition switch issue, or a problem with the ignition key. Search our network of RepairPal Certified shops near you to speak with a technician about your issue.
Car key sensor is not working: If the key is not working at all, it may be due to the drained battery, faulty fob, low car battery, or faulty keyless entry system (if applicable). You can try replacing the fob batteries, diagnosing the fob or towing the vehicle to a service centre to fix the issue.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
Key turns freely in the ignition but won’t start the vehicle. Accessory power remains on unless the battery is disconnected.
ANSWER : The ignition switch or linkage to the switch is broken. The ignition switch needs to have the small linkage from the back side of the key lock cylinder to turn the switch to start and run the vehicle.
Have the ignition switch removed and inspect the linkage and switch to see if one or both switch and linkage needs replaced. If you need assistance with this, one of our mobile technicians would be happy to come to your location to diagnose the issue with your ignition and make the necessary repairs.
You will need a trained mechanic to work on the steering column of the vehicle with air bags due to the air bag system will need to be deactivated before service on the column switches.
Put key in ignition. Lights and everything come on for a second, then went off as I turned the key. Now no power, key stuck
ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. This sounds like your battery cable connections are corroded or loose at the battery. Try to see if the battery connections are loose by wiggling them and see if power returns. If power returns, then have the cables removed, cleaned, and reconnected to test the battery. Hope this helps and best of luck!
Key won’t turn after installing new ignition cylinder and ignition lock. Need help polishing things off.
ANSWER : Hi there:
This problem tends to occur when an aftermarket ignition cylinder is used for the replacement project. The inner lock housing sometimes doesn’t always fit flush to OEM steering columns, which can create the symptoms you’re experiencing.
Here are the directions on how to replace an ignition cylinder article, you should check out. The best option is to remove the old one, and start from scratch. Verify that you’re using an OEM replacement cylinder; as aftermarket parts typically cause more hassle than help in this case.
If you need assistance with fixing this issue, consider YourMechanic, as one of our mobile technicians can come to your home to diagnose the issue with your key firsthand for an accurate repair.
Vehicle won’t start, once it’s jump started it only stays running until you turn it off, then it work start again without jumping.
ANSWER : Hi there. There could be two problems here. It is possible that your battery is bad and will not take a charge from your alternator while driving. In that case every time you shut your car off you will not have enough juice to start it again. Inspect your battery – it should have at least 12.5 to 13 volts to start your car, if it doesn’t you will need to replace the battery. The second problem could be that your alternator is bad and not charging your battery, in this case you will need to replace your alternator. Both the battery and the alternator can be tested in your car. If you would like to have the car checked for you, a certified professional from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to diagnose the starting problem and proceed with repairs.
car sat for 14 days, key stuck in ignition won’t turn over, new battery doesn’t help
ANSWER : Many different items can cause the vehicle to not start. With the key stuck in the ignition it is possible there is a ignition switch or key cylinder fault. For the no start, the most common causes are the ignition switch, battery, starter, fuel pump or battery cable. I recommend having a qualified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, come to your home or office to inspect your no-start condition and make the correct repair.
The smart key can turn the ignition but can’t start the car
ANSWER : Hi there. It appears that the issues you’re experiencing may be caused by the ignition lock cylinder. In some newer vehicles (made after 2000) this part has multiple springs inside the cylinder that allows you to press the key forward and allow it to automatically spring back once the vehicle starts. If this is not happening, then I suggest having a professional mechanic diagnose the starting problem so that the ignition and starting issue can be addressed properly.
Car was sometimes not starting, not even cranking when i turned the key then after a few times itd start. Now it ont start at all
ANSWER : Hi there:
Without being there to inspect your vehicle, or having information about what type of car, truck or SUV you own, it’s very hard for us to give you some advice. You might want to have a professional mobile mechanic complete a car is hard to start inspection; so they can come to your location and determine why your vehicle is having these issues.
Anti-theft ignition issue (won’t start) 2008 Ford Escape
ANSWER : Hi – Ford ignition switches of this vintage have a chronic problem of failing in this manner. The "center button" connection between the key tumbler and ignition switch wears, and the ignition switch is not moved adequately to complete the "starter" circuit. A new ignition switch should fix this. For assistance, I recommend a no start inspection performed by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, and give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.
