Key won’t turn, Hyundai the steering wheel not locked can’t turn at all. Happened before but now key not turning 2007 Hyundai Sonata
Key does not turn in the ignition steering will is not locked I've done the front and back motion it's happened several times but now it does not turn. I even tried my spAre key.
My car has 116000 miles.
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi there – your symptoms suggest the key tumbler – the actual lock portion of the ignition switch – has a stuck pin/spring combination. I suggest squirting a bit of dry graphite lubricant into the key opening, then insert the key and work at turning the key. Other liquid light lubricants can also be used (WD-40 is the classic, but liquids attract dust and dirt, and have a bit of a smell. For assistance, I recommend a ignition key won’t turn 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.
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 Sonata key won`t turn are a binding steering column/lock, an ignition switch issue, or a problem with the ignition key.
Steering wheel – Most vehicles have a steering lock which locks the steering wheel when the key is removed, sometimes it can malfunction causing the key to not be able to be turned.It can also get stuck in a certain position and sometimes if you jiggle the steering wheel and turn the key at the same time it will enable …
If you get in your Hyundai Sonata and find the steering wheel locked, try inserting your key and turning the ignition while simultaneously turning your wheel in the direction where you feel the least resistance. Other tricks include reinserting your key a few times or pulling your key out a bit while turning the wheel.
The three main reasons why an ignition key will not turn include: problems with related components, issues with the key itself, and ignition lock cylinder problems. Tip: Always make sure your parking brake is on to keep the vehicle secure when following these steps.
The most common reason cars don`t start is a dead or faulty battery. Even though most cars run on gasoline, they all require electrical power to function. The starter that cranks your engine to start requires an electrical signal to fire. If something`s wrong with your battery, your car engine won`t turn over.
A diagram of the fuse panel where the fuse is located will be found in your owner`s manual; the fuse you are looking for should be labeled “steering lock.” If you would like help, a technician from YourMechanic can come to your home or office to inspect your steering lock issue and make the necessary repairs.
If your steering wheel locks up while the car is in motion, perhaps the most likely culprit is a lack of power steering fluid, or dirty power steering fluid. Especially at lower speeds like parking lot maneuvers, the power steering system allows you to turn the wheels with ease.
It`s both an anti-theft feature and a parked safety feature that can save lives. First, it makes cars harder to steal—the steering wheel locks up if the key isn`t in the ignition, so if a thief breaks into your car and hotwires it, they aren`t getting very far.
In fact, most anti-theft devices are defeatable by the right thief with determination and knowledge. Aftermarket steering locks, or The Club, are no exception. Throughout the decades since The Club`s patent, plenty of journalists have shown that it can be sawed off or broken in minutes with the right tools.
Bad Sensors
One common culprit for this problem is the crankshaft position sensor, which measures the position and speed of the crankshaft. The computer uses the information from this sensor to know when to fire the spark plugs. If the sensor isn`t working, the spark plugs won`t fire, keeping the engine from starting.
If your car won`t start but the lights come on, it is likely not an issue with your battery so it`s time to turn your attention to your ignition switch. A failed ignition switch won`t be able to supply power to the starter motor, ignition system, and other engine controls, preventing the engine from starting.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
Key won’t turn, Hyundai the steering wheel not locked can’t turn at all. Happened before but now key not turning 2007 Hyundai Sonata
ANSWER : Hi there – your symptoms suggest the key tumbler – the actual lock portion of the ignition switch – has a stuck pin/spring combination. I suggest squirting a bit of dry graphite lubricant into the key opening, then insert the key and work at turning the key. Other liquid light lubricants can also be used (WD-40 is the classic, but liquids attract dust and dirt, and have a bit of a smell. For assistance, I recommend a ignition key won’t turn 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.
steering wheel won’t unlock my key turns only to turn lights on but that’s it can’t unlock steering wheel to start the car what to
ANSWER : The steering lock may not be unlocking either due to a faulty ignition lock housing or more commonly as the cars age a faulty spring at the steering wheel on the under side of the column. If the ignition lock housing is the issue the housing can be replaced. It s a bit tricky as the mounting bolt has break off heads and generally need to be driven out with a punch. If the lock is not disengaging because of a faulty spring on the ignition lock many owners have had the spring removed by having it drilled out of the housing. However, removing the spring may permanently disable the steering lock. The last option would be to replace the steering column. You may want to enlist the help of a mechanic who can recommend the proper repair for your situation.
Ignition won’t turn, steering wheel lock not engaged.
ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. I’d be happy to provide my insight. It is possible the ignition mechanism is broken inside the steering column. I suggest trying to turn over your car with a spare key, to see if the ignition turns with the different key. If you do not have an extra key, then look at the key you have to see if it shows signs of wear. If it is, then have a copy made to see if that works.
If you would like help looking at your ignition system, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make or suggest any repairs as needed.
steering wheel turned to the far right and locked in place while the wheel are straight. and I can’t turn the key.
ANSWER : Hi there. From the description you have provided, concerning your vehicle’s steering wheel is locked far right and key won’t turn with the front wheels in a forward default position, is somewhat confusing to me. It could be, undo pressure is being applied to the steering wheel lock. You could try, physically moving the left front tire side to side in either direction, to relieve the pressure on the steering wheel lock. It could be, the key you are using has a problem, try another key if available. It could be, the ignition lock cylinder is at fault. I recommend having your vehicle’s can’t turn the key be diagnosed and repaired by a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic.
Steering wheel won’t lock. Yellow steering lock warning on dash. Only comes on when removing fob.
ANSWER : Hi there. The issue seems to be the shifter interlock solenoid may be malfunctioning causing the steering wheel lock to not release or not engage.
I suggest having the computer scanned for any codes that would be stored or pending for the steering system as there is a warning light on for the steering lock system. This will give you the correct item to check when dealing with your steering wheel not locking. If you need further assistance with the steering wheel not locking, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.
Steering wheel does not center
ANSWER : The problem to me sounds like you have worn out bushings that hold the power steering rack and pinion assembly. This is why your steering wheel gets off center in the direction of the turn. Have the steering inspected and the bushings replaced if they are bad. You should have no problems then.
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.
Hard to turn steering wheel when on park.
ANSWER : Hey there. There is a check valve in the power steering pump that quite often sticks after a rebuild. Since these are "restoration" components, they tend to sit on shelves longer than present-day parts. Tap lightly on the power steering pump housing and shaft with a hammer to "unstick" the check valve.
It is also possible that the control valve, which routes high pressure fluid to the "power assist" cylinder, is sticking or was not properly rebuilt. With this power assist system, which acts on the steering drag link to assist turning the front wheels, rather than through the gearbox itself – it is really irrelevant whether the steering gearbox is manual or power.
If you prefer some assistance with this issue, I would recommend having a steering system inspection conducted so that this issue can be repaired correctly.
