How to Fix an Ignition Key That Won't Turn: 7 Steps (with Pictures)

If your ignition key no longer wants to turn in the ignition, it can take a lot of time. It's very frustrating and more common than you might think. There are several possible causes, often depending on the type of car you have and the situation you are in. Nevertheless, we can give a general overview of simple solutions for the most common causes of a stuck ignition lock. Try the methods in this article before calling the roadside assistance! Note: The order of problems and possible solutions in this article is from very likely to less likely.

Steps

Step 1. Before doing anything, make sure the handbrake is on

You don't want to accidentally roll away while you're busy with your key!

Fix an Ignition Key That Doesn't Turn Step 1

Step 2. Apply some force to the key and try to turn the steering wheel back and forth to find a place where the key will turn

Often the ignition key does not turn because the steering wheel lock is activated. When that happens, apply force to the ignition and hold it until it works.

Fix an Ignition Key That Doesn't Turn Step 2

Step 3. With an automatic transmission, check whether the lever is in the P position

On some cars, you can't turn the key when the lever is in any position other than "P", which is a common mistake when people are tired or in a hurry.

Fix an Ignition Key That Doesn't Turn Step 3

Step 4. Clean and lubricate the cylinder lock

Spray the lock with contact spray to remove the dirt, followed by a little silicone spray or one or two drops of liquid graphite. Be careful not to spill anything on the upholstery or floor. Open your doors so the fumes don't linger, and watch out for sparks and open flames. Once you have lubricated the lock, you can try again.

Fix an Ignition Key That Doesn't Turn Step 4

Step 5. With some cylinder locks a plate remains and is not pushed out by the springs

Then it can sometimes help to gently tap the front of the lock. A small bench hammer is the right size and weight for use with locks.

Fix an Ignition Key That Doesn't Turn Step 5

Step 6. Check the key itself

Place the key on a flat, solid surface and check if the key is bent. In that case, take a block of wood or something similar and use it to knock the key straight and flat again. Do not use a hammer or other object made of metal or steel for this, because a wrench is usually made of soft material and can be easily damaged.

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Step 7. Tap on the key

Tap the end of the key with a hammer or other hard object while the key is in the ignition. Be careful not to hit your fingers.

Tips

Do not try to turn the key with pliers or the like, the metal of the key is soft and can be easily damaged.

If the first three steps don't work and you don't have a hammer, you can put the key in the lock and hit it with your hand or fist. If you're lucky, this will release a stuck plate. This is a method that you should only use in emergency situations; it is also important to know how to clean the lock.

In an emergency, you can use engine oil to lubricate the lock. Open the hood, pull the dipstick out of the block and drop a few drops of oil on the key. Put the key in the ignition. Pull the key out again and put the key back in, doing this a few times to disperse the oil.

Stay calm. Don't get stressed because your car won't start. Keep calm and call someone to help you.

Warnings

Do not use oil or grease on cylinder locks. Oil attracts dirt and dust, and eventually the plates will get stuck. Use only dry lubricants such as silicone spray, graphite or other agents intended to lubricate locks.

Never clean cylinder locks with agents that leave a thin film. That is usually oil and that attracts dirt. Contact spray works well to clean cylinder locks and does not leave a layer.