What does it mean when my key will not turn in my ignition?

What does it mean when my key will not turn in my ignition?

Inspect the key for damage. If your key won’t turn when you insert it into the ignition, it may be because the key has been damaged and no longer engages the correct pins to the depth necessary to spin the cylinder. Examine the key for signs of excessive wear, rounding or broken teeth.

Why is my key not turning in ignition?

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.

What to do when the ignition key won’t turn?

  • Method 1 of 3: Checking for Common Issues. Ensure the vehicle is in park.
  • Method 2 of 3: Resolving Issues with the Key. Pull the key out slightly before turning it.
  • Method 3 of 3: Addressing Issues with the Ignition Cylinder. Use canned air to clean the ignition port.

    What if the key won’t go in the ignition?

    • Ensure the vehicle is in park. Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission are designed not to start if the transmission is not in park or neutral.
    • it may be because the key has been damaged and no longer
    • Ensure there is nothing stuck to the key.

      What causes the key not to turn in the ignition?

      5 Reasons Your Ignition Key Won’t Turn Bent or Worn Key. This is perhaps the most common cause of the key getting stuck or not turning. Locked Steering Wheel. The steering system has a locking mechanism which is activated whenever you take the key out of the ignition. Jammed Ignition Cylinder. Gear Not Properly Set. Bad Battery.

      Method 1 of 3: Checking for Common Issues. Ensure the vehicle is in park.

    • Method 2 of 3: Resolving Issues with the Key. Pull the key out slightly before turning it.
    • Method 3 of 3: Addressing Issues with the Ignition Cylinder. Use canned air to clean the ignition port.

      Ensure the vehicle is in park. Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission are designed not to start if the transmission is not in park or neutral.

    • it may be because the key has been damaged and no longer
    • Ensure there is nothing stuck to the key.

      Can not get key out of ignition?

      otherwise the key could break off in the ignition.

    • Jack up the front of the car until the wheels just leave the ground.
    • Spray some Teflon dry lube into the ignition switch around the key.
    • Fill a zip-type sandwich bag half full with ice.

      What to do if your key is stuck in the ignition?

      If you believe that your key is stuck because of an obstruction in the keyway, lubricate the key and the ignition cylinder. Then use a broken key extractor tool to gently pull your key out. If this method is successful, you should make sure that you clean the keyway of the ignition afterward.