Key won’t turn after inserting into ignition
The key will not turn when I put it into the ignition. The key is not locked in – it just refuses to turn after inserting it. Naturally I can’t start the car. What is wrong with the key or the ignition?
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hello. It sounds like the ignition has locked up and this is preventing your key from working properly. This sometimes happens if the components inside the ignition gets worn out and gets stuck, preventing the key from turning the ignition. I have found this to be a common problem with general motor vehicles and is easily repaired by replacing the ignition.
A locksmith may have to assist you in reprogramming the key to the new ignition. Have a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, come and complete an inspection to pinpoint exactly why your key does not turn and make recommendations about repairs.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
If your Pontiac Aztek`s key won`t turn, check to see if the transmission is in Park. Many models will prevent the key from turning if the car isn`t in park when turned off. Make sure your car`s parking brake is enabled before you do anything else.
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.
A key cylinder helps open or close the lock. The cylinder is a cylindrical component that houses a series of spring-loaded pins. When you insert the right key for the lock, the pins are pushed into the right position.
Lock/Ignition Switch
The ignition switch, on the right side of the steering column, has five positions: LOCK — The normal parking position. This locks the steering and prevents normal use of the steering wheel. The key can be removed only when the ignition is in this position.
This can usually happen when you turn the key too quickly or if the steering wheel is locked into place. Misalignment between the lock cylinder and the key is another common cause of a stuck key in a locked ignition. If this is the case, the key may turn halfway before getting stuck.
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 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.
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!
Car worked fine last night. Key won’t turn in ignition this morning. Black looking liquid on key when taken out. Chimes sometimes.
ANSWER : Hello and thank you for contacting YourMechanic. There is a rubbery stick substance that is inside the ignition switch to protect the key as it is inserted. What seems to happen is the ignition switch got hot and melted the rubbery stick substance. The fix to this is replacing the ignition switch for it to got hot and failed. Also, check the wiring to the ignition for any loose or damaged wires. If you need further assistance with the ignition switch, then seek out a technician, such as one from YourMechanic to help resolve this problem for you.
Engine turned off but inside of car still on, now engine won’t turn back on.
ANSWER : Hi there. The symptoms you’re describing with your boyfriend’s 2002 Grand Cherokee appear to be related to a broken or worn out ignition switch or relay. The ignition switch on the inside of the steering column is attached to multiple electronic connections that send signals to a relay box; which in turn, sends the signal to the individual components. The issue could be related to the ignition switch, the relay, or any of the components in between. If you want to have the fault pinpointed in person, I would have this starting issue inspected by a trained professional to ensure that the correct repair is made.
New key 2000 beetle, won’t turn on ignition
ANSWER : Likely, the cause of your issue is that your key was cut incorrectly. I would make sure you gave VW the correct VIN number when you had the key made. You may need to get another key made. If this does not solve your issue, I would recommend having a qualified mechanic look into your igniton. It is also likely that you will have to replace your ignition.
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.
hi, my car had a starter replacement last month and the ignition won’t turn on until turning the key at least twice. Thank you!
ANSWER : Hi there. The hissing noise is your fuel pump priming; so this is normal. The ignition issue is sometimes caused by an internal component failure inside the ignition switch. However, it’s possible that the issue could be caused by an ignition relay that is slowly wearing out. I would recommend having a professional mechanic come to your location to complete a car is hard to start inspection; so they can hopefully replicate the symptoms and determine what needs to be repaired.
Key won’t turn after inserting into ignition
ANSWER : Hello. It sounds like the ignition has locked up and this is preventing your key from working properly. This sometimes happens if the components inside the ignition gets worn out and gets stuck, preventing the key from turning the ignition. I have found this to be a common problem with general motor vehicles and is easily repaired by replacing the ignition.
A locksmith may have to assist you in reprogramming the key to the new ignition. Have a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, come and complete an inspection to pinpoint exactly why your key does not turn and make recommendations about repairs.
