What causes ignition switch not to turn?

In most cases, a non-turning ignition is caused by a locked steering column, a worn or damaged key or ignition cylinder, or an electrical fault such as a dead battery or immobilizer issue. Understanding whether the problem is mechanical or electrical helps you decide whether you can fix it at home or need professional help.

Mechanical causes and fixes

Mechanical problems involve the physical parts of the ignition system and steering column. The following issues are the most common reasons a key won’t turn and how they’re typically addressed.

• Steering wheel lock engaged


• Worn or damaged key


• Worn or damaged ignition cylinder or lock tumbler


• Dirt, corrosion, or debris in the ignition cylinder


• Transmission not in Park (automatic) or not fully in neutral (some models)

When facing mechanical sticking, try gently wiggling the steering wheel left and right while turning the key, ensure the transmission is in Park (or Neutral if your model requires it), and use a spare key if available. If the cylinder feels loose or won’t rotate despite correct positioning, a professional key or cylinder replacement may be necessary.

Electrical causes and fixes

Electrical problems can prevent the ignition from turning or the engine from cranking even if the key rotates. The following issues are common electrical culprits and typical responses are outlined.

• Dead or severely discharged battery


• Faulty ignition switch or wiring


• Blown ignition or related fuses


• Immobilizer or anti-theft system fault (key not recognized)


• Push-to-start system issues (for vehicles with key fob and start button)

If you notice dim lights, a clicking sound without cranking, or no response when you turn the key or press the start button, it’s often electrical. Check the battery, fuses, and the key fob battery (for push-button starts). If symptoms persist, a professional diagnostic is recommended to inspect the ignition switch wiring or immobilizer system.

When to seek professional help

Consider calling a mechanic or roadside assistance if:

• The key won’t turn despite trying a spare key and the wheel isn’t obviously locked.


• The ignition cylinder feels worn, loose, or the key just spins without engagement.


• You suspect a dead battery and basic troubleshooting hasn’t restored power.


• Immobilizer warnings appear, or you hear unusual noises when attempting to start.

A professional can safely diagnose whether the issue is a bad ignition switch, a failed lock cylinder, or a deeper electrical fault, and they can perform replacements or reprogramming as needed.

Quick troubleshooting steps

For a quick, at-ease approach, try these steps if you feel confident and it’s safe to do so. Do not force components or attempt invasive fixes.

1. Check that the vehicle is in Park (automatic) or Neutral and apply the parking brake.


2. Gently wiggle the steering wheel while turning the key or pressing the start button.


3. Try a spare key to rule out a worn or damaged key.


4. Inspect the battery and headlights for signs of weakness; replace or recharge if necessary.


5. Check for obvious signs of immobilizer issues (symbol or message) and consider replacing the key fob battery if applicable.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, arrange professional service to prevent further damage or getting stranded.

Summary

A non-turning ignition typically stems from mechanical issues like a locked steering column, worn keys or cylinders, or from electrical problems such as a dead battery, faulty ignition switch, fuses, or immobilizer faults. Start with basic checks—parking gear, steering movement, spare key, and battery condition—and seek professional help if the root cause remains unclear or the system includes modern anti-theft technology. Modern vehicles with push-button starts may shift the troubleshooting focus toward the key fob battery and start-button communications.

Why is my ignition switch not turning?

If your ignition switch won't turn, first check if the steering wheel is locked and try jiggling it while gently turning the key. If that doesn't work, make sure your car is in Park, then try lubricating the lock with a graphite or silicone-based spray. Other issues could include a worn or bent key, debris in the lock, or a failing ignition cylinder.
 
This video demonstrates how to fix a steering wheel lock that is preventing the ignition key from turning: 19sMotoring TVYouTube · Aug 25, 2015
Troubleshooting steps

• Check the steering wheel lock: If the steering wheel is locked, it will put pressure on the ignition lock, preventing the key from turning.
  • Turn the steering wheel gently left and right while simultaneously trying to turn the key.
  • The wheel will move slightly when the lock is released, allowing the key to turn. 

You can watch this video to see how a steering wheel lock affects the ignition: 55sChris NotapYouTube · Jun 5, 2025

• Verify the gear shift is in Park: Ensure your automatic transmission is fully in Park (or Neutral). 
  • Gently wiggle the gear shifter to make sure it's properly engaged. 
• Inspect the key and lock cylinder: 
  • Check your key for any signs of wear, damage, or if it's bent. A heavy keychain can also cause issues. 
  • Examine the keyhole for any debris or obstructions. 
  • If the key is worn, it may not be properly engaging the tumblers inside the lock cylinder. 
• Lubricate the lock: 
  • Use a graphite or silicone-based spray lubricant, as oil-based lubricants can attract more dirt. 
  • Spray the lubricant into the keyhole, then insert the key and gently work it in and out a few times to distribute the lubricant. 

When to seek professional help

• If the key is still not turning after trying the above steps, the ignition cylinder or switch itself may be failing and will need to be replaced. 
• If you have a modern car, a failed electronic key programming can also be the cause. 
• A professional can correctly diagnose the problem and replace the parts if necessary. 

This video shows how to replace a worn ignition cylinder: 58scarquestionsYouTube · Feb 15, 2020

Can I spray WD-40 in an ignition switch?

No, you should not spray regular WD-40 into an ignition switch because it can attract dirt and dust over time, making the problem worse and potentially causing damage. It is best to use a graphite or dry silicone lubricant specifically designed for locks and ignition cylinders. 
This video demonstrates how to lubricate a sticky ignition switch with graphite lubricant: 56sTwoWheelObsessionYouTube · Jan 14, 2018
Why you should avoid WD-40

• Attracts dirt: WD-40 is a solvent and water displacer, but its oily residue can attract dirt and dust, which will mix with the lubricant to form a gritty paste. This can cause the lock mechanism to seize up, making the key difficult to turn. 
• Can cause damage: Its solvent properties can also potentially damage plastic components within the ignition switch, and its tendency to thicken over time is not ideal for lock cylinders. 
• Temporary fix: While it might provide a temporary fix, the long-term effects are negative and can lead to a more serious and costly repair. 

What to use instead

• Graphite lubricant: This is a dry lubricant that will not attract dirt and is ideal for lock cylinders. 
• Dry silicone spray: Similar to graphite, this is a dry, non-stick lubricant specifically made for locks that will not attract dirt and residue. 
• Contact cleaner: If the issue is dirt and grime, an electrical contact cleaner can be used to clean the contacts first, followed by a proper dry lubricant. 
• How to apply: Spray the dry lubricant directly into the key slot and work the key in and out several times to distribute the lubricant evenly. 

What would cause an ignition to lock up?

Your ignition is likely locked due to a locked steering wheel, an improperly set gear shifter, or a worn-out key or ignition cylinder. Other potential causes include a dead car battery or debris in the keyway. 
This video demonstrates how to unlock the steering wheel and ignition: 43sWorld DrivingYouTube · Feb 7, 2019
Common causes and solutions

• Steering wheel lock: The steering wheel can become locked when it's turned tightly after the car is turned off. 
  • Solution: Gently turn the steering wheel left and right while simultaneously turning the key. The wheel should move slightly to one side, and the key should turn when you find the correct pressure. 
• Gear shift not in Park: The key cannot be removed if the gear shifter isn't fully in Park (or Neutral for manual transmissions). 
  • Solution: Make sure the shifter is completely in the Park position. You may need to wiggle it slightly to ensure it's fully engaged before the key can be turned. 
• Worn or damaged key: Over time, the cuts on the key can wear down, and the key can become bent or damaged. 
  • Solution: Try another key if you have one. If that doesn't work, the key may need to be replaced by a locksmith or dealer. 
• Worn or damaged ignition: The internal pins and wafers inside the ignition cylinder can wear out or break over time. 
  • Solution: You can try using a small amount of graphite lubricant, but if the problem persists, the ignition cylinder may need professional servicing or replacement. 
• Dead car battery: A dead battery can prevent a car with modern ignition systems from starting or releasing the key. 
  • Solution: Try jump-starting the car. If it starts, you'll need to diagnose why the battery died. 
• Debris: Dirt, dust, or other debris can get into the ignition keyway and cause a jam. 
  • Solution: Gently clean the keyway. A small amount of lubricant can also help, but avoid using oil-based lubricants like WD-40, which can attract more dirt over time. 

What to avoid

• Do not use force: Never try to force the key or the steering wheel. This can damage the key, the ignition cylinder, or other components. 
• Do not use oil-based lubricants: Oil-based lubricants can attract dirt and make the problem worse in the long run. 

How to diagnose a bad ignition switch?

You can diagnose a bad ignition switch by observing symptoms like the key being hard to turn, the engine failing to start or stalling, and electrical issues like flickering dashboard lights. To test, try jiggling the key or gently tapping the lock cylinder; if the car starts or the symptoms temporarily improve, the switch is likely the issue. You can also test for a no-start condition by using a voltmeter to check for voltage to the starter when the key is in the start position, but be sure to rule out a dead battery or other issues first. 
Observe for common symptoms 

• Difficulty turning the key: The key is hard to turn, gets stuck, or you have to wiggle it to get the car to start. 
• Engine fails to start: The engine may crank but not start, or the starter motor may make no sound at all. 
• Engine stalls: The engine starts but then dies shortly after, or stalls randomly while driving. 
• Electrical problems: Dashboard lights flicker, dim, or don't turn on at all. Accessories like the radio or power windows may also malfunction intermittently. 

Perform basic diagnostic tests

• Jiggle the key: While the key is in the ignition, gently try to wiggle it back and forth. If the car starts or electrical issues temporarily go away, the switch is likely faulty. 
• Tap the lock cylinder: With the key in the "on" or "start" position, lightly tap the lock cylinder where you insert the key. If the car starts after tapping, it's a sign of a poor internal connection. 
• Check electrical accessories: With the key in the "on" (accessory) position, check if things like the radio or dashboard lights are working. If they are, but the car won't crank in the "start" position, the problem may be with the switch's starter circuit rather than the entire switch or battery. 
• Test with a multimeter: 
  • Turn the key to the "on" position and check the voltage at the appropriate terminal (refer to your vehicle's service manual). 
  • If the battery is good but the voltage reading is very low or zero, the ignition switch is likely not sending power to the accessories and engine control unit. 

Rule out other issues

• Battery check: A dead or weak battery can cause many of the same symptoms, such as a no-start condition. Always check the battery first to ensure it is fully charged. 
• Starter relay and fuse: A bad starter relay or fuse can also cause a no-start condition. These components are often less expensive to replace than the ignition switch.