What to do when the key wont turn in the ignition?

If you find yourself in a situation where the key won't turn in the ignition, don't panic. This is a common problem that can have several underlying causes. In this article, we'll explore the steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Potential Causes of a Key That Won't Turn

There are several reasons why a key may not turn in the ignition. Some of the most common causes include:

• Steering Wheel Lock: The steering wheel may be locked, preventing the key from turning. This can happen if the wheels are turned too far to the left or right.


• Ignition Switch Failure: The ignition switch, which is responsible for starting the engine, may be malfunctioning and preventing the key from turning.


• Broken Key: If the key is worn down or damaged, it may not fit properly in the ignition, making it difficult or impossible to turn.


• Transmission Issue: If the transmission is not in the correct gear, the ignition may be locked, preventing the key from turning.


• Steering Column Lock: Some vehicles have a steering column lock that engages when the key is removed, making it difficult to turn the key back in.

Identifying the root cause of the problem is the first step in resolving the issue.

Steps to Troubleshoot a Key That Won't Turn

If you find yourself in a situation where the key won't turn in the ignition, follow these steps to troubleshoot the problem:

1. Check the Steering Wheel: Try gently rocking the steering wheel back and forth while turning the key. This can help release the steering wheel lock and allow the key to turn.


2. Inspect the Key: Examine the key for any signs of damage or wear. If the key is worn down or broken, you may need to replace it.


3. Check the Transmission: Ensure that the transmission is in the correct gear, such as park or neutral, before attempting to turn the key.


4. Inspect the Ignition Switch: If the key still won't turn, the ignition switch may be faulty. This will require professional diagnosis and repair.


5. Seek Professional Assistance: If you've tried all the above steps and the key still won't turn, it's best to seek the help of a qualified mechanic or locksmith. They can diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs.

Remember, attempting to force the key to turn can cause further damage to the ignition system, so it's important to take a methodical approach to troubleshooting the issue.

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. 

How do you fix a key lock that won't turn?

If a key won't turn in a lock, first try wiggling the key while applying gentle turning pressure to help align the internal pins. If that doesn't work, lubricate the lock with a graphite-based spray or powder, working the key back and forth to distribute the lubricant. Check if the door is misaligned, which can put pressure on the lock mechanism. If the problem persists after these steps, you may need to call a locksmith, as the lock or key may be worn or damaged. 
This video demonstrates how to align the internal pins to get a key to turn: 57sHelpful DIYYouTube · May 24, 2022
Basic troubleshooting

• Wiggle the key: Gently jiggle the key up and down while trying to turn it. This can help misaligned pins and tumblers line up. 
• Check for debris: Look inside the keyhole for any visible dirt or debris and try to dislodge it with a blast of compressed air or a lock lubricant spray. 
• Lubricate the lock: Spray a graphite-based lubricant into the keyhole. Avoid oil-based lubricants, which can attract more dirt. Insert and remove the key a few times to work the lubricant in, then try to turn the key again. 
• Align the door: Ensure the door is not sagging or misaligned, which can cause the bolt to bind. You can test this by trying to lock or unlock the door with the door slightly ajar. 

This video shows how to lubricate a stuck lock to fix a key that won't turn: 46sHome in PlaceYouTube · Sep 25, 2022
When to seek professional help

• Worn or broken key: If the key appears worn or damaged, or if it breaks off in the lock, a locksmith can replace the key or extract the broken piece. 
• Persistent issues: If the lock still won't turn after trying the steps above, there might be internal damage to the lock cylinder or pins. 
• Unusual or complex locks: Some car ignitions or high-security locks may have specific issues that require professional tools and expertise. 

You can watch this video to see a locksmith's solution for a stuck lock: 1mGuardian Safe & LockYouTube · May 21, 2020

What to do when the key won't turn in the ignition?

If your car key won't turn in the ignition, try turning the steering wheel while gently jiggling the key. If that doesn't work, try inserting and removing the key several times, applying gentle up-and-down pressure while turning, or spraying a lubricant like graphite into the lock. Other checks include making sure the gear shift is fully in Park or Neutral and checking if the battery is dead, as modern cars may not start without sufficient power. 
This video demonstrates how to fix a key that won't turn due to a locked steering wheel: 1mWorld DrivingYouTube · Feb 7, 2019
Immediate fixes

• Relieve steering wheel tension: Turn the steering wheel firmly in one direction, then the other, while simultaneously trying to turn the key. This can release the steering column lock. 
• Check the gear shift: For automatic vehicles, make sure the gear shift is fully in the "Park" or "Neutral" position. Gently rock the shift lever back and forth to ensure it's properly seated. 
• Jiggle or wiggle the key: Try gently wiggling the key up and down or back and forth while turning it. This can help align worn pins in the ignition cylinder. 
• Insert and remove the key: Pull the key out slightly, re-insert it fully, and try turning again. You can also try sliding the key in and out several times to dislodge debris. 

You can watch this video to learn how to fix a key that won't turn by cleaning the key and ignition cylinder: 59sSure Lock & Key LLCYouTube · Dec 1, 2024
Lubrication and key inspection 

• Lubricate the ignition: Spray a graphite or silicone-based lubricant into the keyway. Avoid oil-based lubricants that can attract dirt. Wipe off any excess, then try the key again. 
• Inspect and clean the key: Check if the key is bent or worn out. If it looks worn, it may need to be replaced. You can also clean the key with warm soapy water and a toothbrush. 

Other potential issues

• Check the battery: Some modern vehicles require electrical power to unlock the ignition. If the battery is dead, the key may not turn. A jump start could solve the problem. 
• Identify worn or broken parts: If these steps don't work, the issue could be a worn key or a problem with the ignition lock cylinder. In this case, the key may need to be replaced or the ignition cylinder may require professional service. 

How to unlock the steering lock?

But just wiggle it around wiggle the key and the steering wheel together. And it'll free. Up it's only a problem at extreme left or right if you're parked.