What to Do – Car Key Stuck in Ignition

When you are dealing with a problem like your car key being stuck in the ignition, you can try to turn the key and the wheel to get it out, but often times, nothing happens. This is because it’s not the ignition key that is the problem. But there are some things you can try to do prior to calling in a locksmith for help. Here, we are going to go over some of these things. We hope you find this information to be useful in the event that you ever end up with your car key stuck in the ignition of your vehicle. Check it out!   

If your car key is stuck in ignition…

Notice the position of your key. Is it in the correct position to remove the key, meaning the lock position? Sometimes, as your vehicle gets older and suffers from wear and tear, it gets a bit more difficult for the key to come out of the ignition or turn properly due to the ignition having some wear.

Tip: Consider this – if you put too much pressure on the cylinder, as in have too many objects on your key ring, this can make wear happen faster. So avoid doing this!

Try turning the steering wheel from side to side. While you are doing this, try to take the key out of the ignition. It could be that the steering wheel being locked is causing the key to get stuck in place.

Is the car not in the park position? If so, you will need to move it into park. This might sound simple, but it happens!

Notice if you have a dead battery. A dead battery could mean that you can’t get your key out of the ignition because if this is the case, your key’s transponder chip won’t be able to be picked up by the car’s anti-theft system.

See if it’s a problem with the electric system. This is a sure possibility. Your electric system could be causing the concern. If you have tried moving the wheel back and forth and you realize that it is not locked, or if it is locked and for some reason you don’t have the ability to unlock it doing this trick, it could be that you have an electric problem with your car.

Make sure the vehicle is not running. This sounds like a given, but it does happen. It can especially happen if you are borrowing a friend’s car or using a rental that you haven’t adjusted to yet. Make sure the key is turned all the way to the off position. Then, try to rotate the key, in a direction that is counter-clockwise.

Look for damage to the ignition cylinder. If the ignition cylinder is damaged at all or if it is so worn that it is not functioning, it could very well lead to the key getting stuck. If you can look and see the key is broken because a broken piece has come out, you will need broken key extraction, which a locksmith can perform, and you will also need transponder key programming, which is yet another service a locksmith can perform. They can also carry out ignition switch replacement. You might think you have to hire a mechanic for this, but it is a lock problem.

If you have tried these things to no avail, you might want to consider calling a locksmith that specializes in automotive services. If you have a spare key, definitely use it in the meantime!

Connecting with a mobile, local locksmith that specializes in automotive options can make a huge difference for you. You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith who specializes in lock and security services for all makes and models. Whether you have a GM, Chrysler, Mazda, Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi, Lexus, Ford, BMW, Audi or anything else, the locksmith should be able to help you.

We know that issues with your vehicle can be scary. You want your ride to be safe and convenient. Now, if there is an issue with your ignition cylinder or your key, we hope you have a better idea of what to do. It isn’t an uncommon concern for the key to eventually get stuck in the ignition. When it happens, it might be as simple as just needing to shut off the car or turn the steering wheel to ensure it is not locked.
When you are dealing with a problem such as your car key being stuck in the ignition, you can try the steps provided, for example, you can attempt to turn the key and the wheel to get it out, but often times, nothing is going to get accomplished when you do this. It’s because the problem could be something deeper than this.

You will cost yourself more money if you try to rip the key out and possibly even break the key if it is not already broken. If you have attempted the solutions discussed here to no avail, then certainly consider calling an automotive locksmith that is insured and licensed, as this is a person that will be able to help you get back on the road. If you are in our service area, try us! We provide everything needed in one place, like programming new transponder keys, offering broken key extraction, ignition switch replacement and more. A locksmith will come to your rescue so make sure to find someone, mobile, who is willing to offer 24/7 emergency service. You don’t want to be trapped in a parking lot after all.