Car Key Stuck in Ignition? Here Is What to Do
If you have a car with a keyed ignition, you might find yourself in a situation where your key gets stuck in the ignition and won’t come out. This can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’re in a hurry, but you must stay calm and handle the situation carefully to avoid causing further damage. Sometimes, it might be a minor issue like the steering wheel locking when you turn off the engine, which traps the key, but other times, it can be a big problem that needs professional help.
In this blog post, we will go over why your key gets stuck in the ignition and what you can do to get it out safely.
Why Is My Car Key Stuck in the Ignition?
If your keys won’t come out of the ignition, it means that there is a mechanical or alignment issue that needs to be fixed. Some of the common reasons why this happens are:
- Damaged Key: If you have an old, worn key, it can get stuck in the ignition because it may not line up properly with the pins inside the ignition cylinder.
- Dirt or Debris: If your ignition has dirt or debris, it might prevent the key from turning or coming out.
- Worn Ignition Cylinder: Your key cylinder can wear out over time and stop working with the key.
- Steering Wheel Lock: The steering wheel locking mechanism can put pressure on the ignition cylinder and make it hard to remove the key.
- Your Car Isn’t in the “Park” Position: You can’t remove your key from the ignition if you have a modern car with an automatic transmission unless the gear shift is fully in the “Park” position.
- Dead Battery: In some cars, a dead battery can cause the key to get stuck in the car and not release automatically. If your car key is stuck in the ignition and the car won’t start, it could be a sign that your battery is drained.
Read More: How to Get Keys Out of a Locked Car: 8 Ways (Manual & Auto)
How to Get Your Car Key Out of the Ignition
If your car key is stuck in the ignition, don’t try to force it out because it might break inside and make it worse. Instead, try to remove it safely using these methods:
1- Wiggle the Steering Wheel
Sometimes, the steering wheel can put pressure on the ignition cylinder and cause the key to get stuck. Try carefully moving the wheel side to side while gently turning the stuck key to release pressure. If your wheel has a steering lock, you can try to unlock it by steering your wheel in the opposite direction before attempting to turn your key.
2- Check the Ignition Cylinder
If your keys get stuck in the ignition repeatedly, maybe the issue is with the ignition cylinder, not the keys. Over time, the ignition cylinder can wear out or collect debris, which causes your keys to get stuck. In this case, you should either clean the ignition cylinder or change it.
3- Check the Gear Selector
Before panicking about your car key stuck in the ignition, ensure that your car is in park or neutral because the transmission system won’t release the key unless the transmission is properly set. Move the gear selector to the correct position, then try pulling out your key again.
4- Inspect the Key for Damage
Before putting your key in the ignition cylinder, check for any damage or wear on it. If you see any signs of cracks or other issues, use another existing key or get a replacement key and avoid using the damaged one. Using a damaged key increases the risk of the key getting stuck in the ignition or even breaking.
5- Use a Graphite Lubricant
Carefully apply lock lubricant to the ignition cylinder if you think that the reason for your key being stuck in the ignition is dirt or debris. Use graphite-based lubricants and avoid oil-based ones because they can attract dust or grime inside the cylinder. After applying lube, use your left index finger to push down on your key cylinder and gently jiggle your key with your right hand to pull it out. Using a lock lubricant can usually free a stuck key without causing damage, but you have to be patient and careful with it.
6- Ensure the Car Is Not in Accessory Mode
If your car is in accessory mode, the key may not come out of the ignition. Accessory mode allows you to use features like the radio, power windows, and other features without turning your vehicle on. If your key isn’t turned fully towards the off position, turn it and try removing it after a few seconds.
7- Check for Unusual Locking Mechanisms
Sometimes, certain car models have locking mechanisms that prevent the key from being released under specific conditions. Check near the car ignition switch for any buttons or switches that might need to be pressed or adjusted before the key can come out of the ignition lock.
8- Seek Professional Help
If none of these DIY methods work for you and you can’t get your key out of the ignition, don’t use force; call a professional locksmith to assist you. Our professional car unlock services are available 24/7 as a part of the Canada Direct Roadside Assistance subscription program. Become a member today and get access to fast, reliable help whenever you need it.
What Should I Do If My Key Won’t Come Out of the Ignition?
The first thing you should do if your key is stuck in the ignition is ensure your vehicle is in “park” mode. If your gear selector isn’t fully in park mode, you won’t be able to remove your key. If this doesn’t work, you can try these DIY methods, but ensure you stay patient and careful:
- Gently turn the steering wheel side to side while trying to remove the key.
- Check if the key is slightly turned. If it’s not fully in the “off” position, it won’t come out.
- If turning the key causes clicking or silence, your starter motor may be the issue. A faulty motor can affect the ignition and key removal.
- Use a small amount of graphite lubricant to help if dirt or debris is causing the key to be locked in the ignition.
- If your key keeps getting stuck in the ignition and the key is fine, it may be time to consider getting a new ignition cylinder.
If none of these DIY methods work, you should call a professional car locksmith to avoid damaging the ignition system or breaking the key inside the cylinder. Become a member today and get access to the best roadside assistance in Canada.
Top Reasons You Can’t Remove Your Key from the Ignition
If your key is stuck in the car ignition and won’t come out, it might be due to various reasons, including:
- Your car isn’t in the “Park” mode.
- The key isn’t fully turned to “off”.
- The steering lock mechanism is trapping your key.
- The key is damaged or worn.
- There’s dirt or debris inside the ignition.
- The ignition cylinder is worn out and needs to be replaced.
- The battery is dead and is keeping the key stuck in the ignition.
How to Remove a Stuck Key from a Honda Ignition Safely
Make sure that your car is in the “Park” mode and the key is turned all the way to the “off” position. If you can’t manage to get the key out yet, try several methods, such as wiggling the key gently, moving your wheel side to side while pulling the key, or applying a small amount of graphite lubricant. If these methods don’t work, contact Canada Direct Roadside Assistance for a reliable and quick locksmith service.
Why Does My Key Get Stuck in the Ignition When I Turn It Off?
The most common reasons for your key getting stuck in the ignition after turning off the engine are your car not being in the “Park” mode, and your key not being fully turned to the “off” position. Many cars won’t release the key unless these two conditions are met. This is a built-in safety feature to prevent accidental rollaways or electrical drain.
What to Do If Your Key Breaks in the Ignition Cylinder?
If your key breaks in the ignition cylinder, do not attempt to apply force, as this can push the broken pieces further inside. Instead, keep the ignition switch turned off and seek professional help from a locksmith in your area. Our locksmith services at Canada Direct Roadside Assistance are available 24/7 across Canada and the US as a part of our membership program. Contact us today to learn more.
What to Do If Your Key Is Stuck in the Ignition Due to a Dead Battery?
If your car key’s stuck in the ignition due to a dead battery, try to jump-start the vehicle first. Try to gently wiggle your key out of the ignition without applying force. If the key is still stuck after jump-starting your battery, then it might be completely drained and needs to be replaced. If the key still will not come out after fixing the battery, contact a locksmith or roadside assistance service for help.
Car Key Stuck in Ignition, FAQS
How much does it cost to fix a stuck key in the ignition?
Fixing a key that’s stuck in the ignition can cost you between $100 and $350, depending on the cause and your location. A basic locksmith service in Canada usually ranges between $100 to $150 for a one-time visit. However, our membership program only costs between $99 and $118 for four service calls per year. Reach out today to learn more!
What are the symptoms of a faulty ignition switch?
The most common symptoms of a faulty ignition switch are:
- Your car won’t start after you turn the key.
- Your dashboard lights keep flickering while the key is in the “On” position.
- Sudden stalling while driving.
- The key feels loose inside the switch.
- The key keeps getting stuck in the ignition.
- The radio, power windows, and other accessories are not working properly.
Is it okay to leave the key in the ignition?
It’s not recommended to leave your key in the ignition because:
- If the key is left in the accessory or “on” position, it can drain your battery.
- Leaving the key in the ignition can increase the risk of theft or unauthorized use of your vehicle.
- It can also wear out the ignition cylinder over time, especially in older vehicles.
What preventive measures can I take to avoid key jamming in the future?
Clean the ignition cylinder regularly, replace damaged or worn keys, and avoid using excessive force when inserting or turning the key. Using a graphite-based lubricant occasionally can also help keep the ignition mechanism working smoothly and reduce the chance of jamming.
Can you jump-start a car with a bad ignition switch?
If it’s an emergency, jump-starting may not work if the ignition switch is totally shot. But if it’s partially failing, you might be able to get the car started temporarily by jump-starting the battery. But don’t rely on this temporary fix, and if it’s failing at all, replace or repair the ignition switch.
What happens if your key breaks off in the ignition?
The best way to remove a broken key from the ignition is to call a professional locksmith right away. If you try to remove it yourself, you might end up pushing the broken pieces further in which can damage the ignition cylinder.