The key is in ignition but won’t turn off
I tried taking the key out of ignition but it won't turn off though the key does come out. What should I do?
My car's transmission is unknown to me.
My car's transmission is unknown to me.
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi there. A stuck ignition is caused by multiple possible issues. I would recommend reading this article first to try and self-diagnose what possibly is causing this issue. If these tips don’t help, it’s probably best to have a professional mechanic come to your location and complete a car is hard to start inspection.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
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.
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.
Jiggling the key – Another easy method for removing a stuck key is to push down on the key cylinder with your left index finger while simultaneously jiggling the key with your right hand. This can loosen the grasp of the springs and pins located inside the cylinder and allow the key to slide out.
This can happen for several reasons: Your remote battery could be dead. The car`s battery could be dead – this would cause the key memory to be lost. You may have a damaged immobilizer chip in your key.
A car`s anti-theft system may activate if your key fob battery is dead and hasn`t disabled the system. Make sure the battery is installed correctly in your key fob. If the battery is correctly installed, replace it with a fresh battery and try again. Step 2: Check your door lock cylinder.
Simply press the left arrow button. Navigate to “Settings” and then select the “OK”. Once in settings, navigate to the “MyKey” options and press “OK”. Scroll until you see “Clear MyKey,” select and hold “OK” until you see a message saying “All MyKeys Cleared”.
It`s mounted inside the ignition switch, the electrical component that locks the ignition and “reads” anti-theft coding in the key to allow the vehicle to start.
The Ford Keyless Entry system lets you lock and unlock your car, without taking your key out of your pocket or bag. Sensors around the car detect the presence of the `passive key` and activate the locking mechanism accordingly.
If your ignition switch is stuck in the accessory position and will not shut off the power to the car, you can put graphite into the tumbler to help with the key; although this will damage the tumbler, you will be able to shut off the power to the vehicle.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
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.
Read Full Q/A … : The key is in ignition but won’t turn off
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!
Read Full Q/A … : The key is in ignition but won’t turn off
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.
Read Full Q/A … : The key is in ignition but won’t turn off
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.
Read Full Q/A … : The key is in ignition but won’t turn off
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.
Read Full Q/A … : The key is in ignition but won’t turn off
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.
Read Full Q/A … : The key is in ignition but won’t turn off
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.
Read Full Q/A … : The key is in ignition but won’t turn off
Key won’t turn in the ignition switch.
ANSWER : Hi there. If the key can go into the ignition switch and turn then the key is the right one. If the switch is not turning all the way, then the switch is damaged and needs replaced with the key unless you can get the factory key switch for your car. If you need further assistance with your key not turning all the way, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.
Read Full Q/A … : The key is in ignition but won’t turn off
