Ah, ah! Your car key is stuck in the ignition and won't move. NOT YET! If you drive regularly, at one time or another, you've probably encountered this problem. Your car keys should easily slide in and out of the ignition and if they don't, well, something is wrong. The last thing you want is to leave your key in the ignition, your car unprotected and you stranded. It's time to get to the bottom of it! Here are the top reasons why your car may be stuck in the ignition.
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1. Is your car turned off?
This may seem like a silly thing to bring up, but you'd be surprised how often it happens. When you're caught up in work, or you know, just life in general, you may not realize that the key hasn't fully turned in the ignition cylinder. In automotive jargon, this means that the car is not completely turned off, so the key will not slip out of the ignition. Your car is also not technically off if your equipment is not set correctly. Make sure your gear is set to "P" or "Park" if you have an automatic car and "Neutral", if it's a manual car. Sometimes knowing the basics of your car can be very helpful when faced with problems like this. Here is a complete guide to your basic car knowledge.
To solve this problem, make sure you put the key all the way into the ignition and wiggle it towards the . Sometimes this helps and will allow you to turn the key fully into the ignition cylinder and remove it successfully.
2. Incorrect key?
If you are a family with two or more cars, it is not uncommon to accidentally grab the wrong key while rushing to work. Although you can easily insert the car key into the ignition, the ignition pins don't line up with the key, causing it to get stuck. Take a deep breath and make sure you have the right keys before looking. for a solution to your problem.
3. Is your car key damaged or worn out?
The most common reason your car key may be stuck in the ignition is that it has gotten all old and rusty. When your car key is rusty or dull on the sides, it may not fit into the ignition as well as it should. Keeping your keys in a place that is not prone to rust will ensure that your car keys stay rust free for as long as possible to avoid any problems!
Read also: What To Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
4. Debris on the key or ignition
Have you been using the car key to open things? Maybe boxes or packages with tape on them? Don't worry. You are just one of millions. Everyone does it, however if you do, you need to be more careful about the condition of your car key. If you have tape stuck to your keys, you may be able to turn on your car, but don't be surprised if you find your key stuck when you are done. When there is dirt, tape or basically anything that can affect the shape of your key, it makes it harder for the key to engage the ignition pins. It is also common to find dirt or debris in the ignition itself. Try dusting it and maintaining your car's maintenance.
5. The classic broken key incident
It's easy to take out your anger on your car, especially when your anger erupts while driving and there's no other way to release it. Whether it's because you were angry, frustrated, or just doing your best to get your key out, if you push too hard on the key, it can break. It's important to treat your car and all its components well. A car is not just a way for you to get to work, it is an investment. However, if your car key is broken, don't worry! The process of removing a broken car key isn't too complicated, but unless you're a car or key expert, you shouldn't try to remove it yourself because it could cause further damage.
6. Is your steering wheel locked?
As great as car safety technology is, we have to be a little more careful when it comes to car technology. Most vehicles are equipped with a steering wheel lock. If you have turned off your car while your steering wheel is still slightly off, the steering wheel lock will be activated. This also automatically causes the ignition system to lock. This problem can be overcome, however. Wiggle around your car key in the ignition while trying to get your steering wheel back in place. Stay calm. With a little determination, you can certainly do it!
7. Have you checked your ignition cylinder?
All of the above are problems that you can probably identify. If you have checked all of the above problems and your car key is still stuck, the problem may be more difficult. If your car key is stuck in the ignition and it has nothing to do with the car's external locking system, chances are your ignition cylinder is damaged. There are several rows of spring loaded pins in the lock, working perfectly to fit the key. Sometimes the pins can get stuck, preventing the pins from aligning with the key. In this case, try using a hammer to gently tap the key. The vibration from the tapping can help separate the pins. However, if your cylinder is damaged, this can cause the pins to become misaligned. In this case, there is absolutely nothing you can do on your own and the best option is to contact your nearest mechanic to get it fixed.
8. Do you need a repair?
The ignition system runs on electricity, just like the rest of the car. However, the reason for your car may simply be that it hasn't been serviced in a while. Proper car maintenance is important to ensure that your car is in its best possible condition. However, if you have a dead battery, the ignition system will not work, preventing you from removing the car keys from the ignition. In this case, you can either try to start your car if you know how, or install a new battery. Your car allows you to get around and saves you the hassle of public transportation. If you drive a lot for work or just in general, your service repairs may be due sooner than you think.
Read also: Someone Keyed My Car! How To Fix Keyed Cars With Ease