Why wont my key turn in the ignition on my Chevy Colorado?

Common causes include a steering wheel lock engaged, a worn or jammed ignition cylinder, a dead battery or electrical fault, or a triggering anti-theft/immobilizer system that prevents the key from turning or the engine from starting.

What might be causing it?

Several issues can prevent the key from turning or the vehicle from starting. The following are the most frequent culprits in Chevy Colorados.

• Steering wheel lock engaged or pressure on the steering column


• Ignition cylinder worn or jammed from repeated use


• Key is worn, damaged, or not the correct key for the vehicle


• Gear selector not fully in Park (automatic) or Neutral, triggering a safety interlock


• Battery or electrical issues that leave the ignition system without power


• Anti-theft/immobilizer system triggered (Passlock/immobilizer light may be on or flashing)

Conclusion: If you encounter this problem, avoid forcing the key, which can break the key or cylinder. Identify the likely cause and address it with careful steps or professional help as needed.

Troubleshooting steps

Try these steps in order to identify and potentially resolve the issue without professional help. Do not force the key or crank the engine if you notice abnormal resistance or other warning signs.

1. Check if the steering wheel is locked. Gently wiggle the steering wheel left and right while trying to turn the key to release the lock.


2. Inspect the key itself. Ensure it is fully inserted and try a spare key if you have one. If the key is worn or damaged, a locksmith or dealership can cut a fresh key from your vehicle’s code.


3. Verify the gear selector is fully in Park (automatic) or Neutral. A misaligned shifter can prevent the ignition from turning.


4. Test the battery and electrical system. A dead or very weak battery can affect ignition operation. If possible, attempt a jump start or replace the battery if it tests weak.


5. Look for anti-theft/immobilizer indicators. If the security light on the dash is blinking or on, wait a few minutes and try again with a recognized key. If the problem persists, the immobilizer may need to be relearned or the key reprogrammed.


6. If none of the above solves the issue, avoid forcing the key. Seek help from a professional locksmith or Chevy dealer for ignition cylinder service or immobilizer reprogramming. If the vehicle is not safe to move, consider towing to a repair facility.

Conclusion: Many ignition key issues can be resolved with basic checks or a new key. Some problems, such as a worn ignition cylinder or a malfunctioning immobilizer, require professional service.

Model-specific notes for Chevy Colorado

The Chevy Colorado uses a transponder-equipped ignition and steering column lock across its model years. If you recently replaced the key, battery, or remote, the immobilizer may require a relearn procedure. If the security light is on or blinking, wait and retry with a recognized key or consult a dealer for key reprogramming. Over time, the ignition cylinder can wear and bind, which may necessitate lubrication or replacement by a qualified technician. Do not attempt invasive repairs yourself; professional diagnosis is recommended when basic steps do not resolve the issue.

When to seek professional help

Contact a certified mechanic or Chevrolet service center if:

• The key still won’t turn after trying the troubleshooting steps


• The steering wheel remains locked or the ignition cylinder feels binding even with a spare key


• The security/immobilizer light is consistently on or blinking


• You suspect ignition cylinder wear, need immobilizer reprogramming, or the key needs to be re-cut with proper codes

Summary

In short, a Chevy Colorado key that won’t turn is usually caused by a locked steering wheel, a worn or jammed ignition cylinder, a dead battery, or an immobilizer/anti-theft issue. Start with gentle steering wheel movement, try a spare key, ensure the car is in Park (or Neutral), and check the battery. If the problem persists, seek professional help to avoid damaging the ignition or triggering immobilizer faults. A dealership or licensed locksmith can typically diagnose and fix ignition cylinder problems or reprogram the immobilizer as needed.

How to fix key not turning in ignition Chevy?

For a bent key, gently flatten the key using a rubber or wood hammer on a flat surface. Once the key is straightened, attempt to turn it in the ignition. For a worn key, try using your spare key, if available. If you don't have a spare, contact your dealership with your VIN to get a replacement key.

Why won't my key turn in my Chevy Colorado?

If your Chevy Colorado key won't turn, first try wiggling the steering wheel and key at the same time to release the steering column lock. If that fails, make sure the gear shift is fully in Park and try wiggling the shifter button or shifting between Park and Drive, as the park lock solenoid may be the issue. As a last resort, lubricate the lock cylinder, and if it still won't turn, you may have a worn key or a problem with the ignition switch itself that requires professional diagnosis.
 
This video demonstrates how to unlock the steering wheel and start a Chevy Colorado with a key that won't turn: 54sWorld DrivingYouTube · Feb 7, 2019
Initial troubleshooting steps

• Release the steering lock: Turn the steering wheel slightly left and right while applying gentle, steady pressure on the key to unlock the steering column. 
• Adjust the gear shift: Ensure the vehicle is fully in Park. Try pushing the shifter button multiple times or shifting from Drive to Park while holding the brake, listening for a click that indicates it is properly engaged. 
• Use a different key: Try a spare key, as your current one may be worn or damaged. 
• Wiggle the key: Gently wiggle the key while trying to turn it. It might just be a simple alignment issue. 

Other potential solutions 
This video shows how to use lubricant to fix a key that won't turn in the ignition: 53sDave the WoodworkerYouTube · Dec 30, 2022

• Lubricate the ignition cylinder: Spray a small amount of silicone-based lubricant into the key slot and work the key in and out. Avoid mixing lubricants, which can cause buildup. 
• Tap the ignition: Some users have reported success by gently tapping the ignition with the palm of their hand while trying to turn the key. 
• Address the park lock solenoid: This is a common problem on newer models, especially if the key gets stuck after a quick shift into Park. If the above steps don't work, the problem could be a faulty park switch or solenoid within the transmission or shifter mechanism. 

When to seek professional help 
This video explains how to remove the ignition lock cylinder for repair or replacement: 58srealfixesrealfastYouTube · Aug 4, 2014

• If the key still won't turn after trying these steps, it could be a worn-out ignition switch, a damaged key, or an internal problem with the ignition lock cylinder. 
• In these cases, it is best to have the vehicle diagnosed by a mechanic or a locksmith to avoid further damage. 

How to unlock Chevy Colorado steering wheel?

Hold your steering wheel in the right direction, insert the key into the ignition, and start the engine. If the wheel is still locked and the engine won't start, turn the wheel in the other direction and repeat the process.

What do I do if my steering wheel is locked and my key won't turn?

To unlock a steering wheel when the key won't turn, gently turn the steering wheel in one direction while simultaneously wiggling the key back and forth with light pressure. You will likely feel a small amount of give in the wheel in one direction; apply pressure in that direction while turning the key to release the lock.
 
This video demonstrates how to unlock a steering wheel when the key won't turn: 1mWorld DrivingYouTube · Feb 7, 2019
Step 1: Apply pressure to the steering wheel 

• Gently try to move the steering wheel in both the left and right directions. 
• You will find that the wheel is completely solid in one direction and will move slightly in the other. This is the direction where pressure is being applied to the steering lock. 

Step 2: Turn the key while turning the wheel 

• Insert your key into the ignition. 
• Apply light but steady pressure to the key in the direction you want to turn it, but do not force it. 
• While holding that light pressure on the key, move the steering wheel in the direction that has a small amount of play. 
• The key should turn once the pressure is released from the lock. 

You can watch this video to see how to apply pressure to the steering wheel while turning the key: 52sHolmes HondaYouTube · Mar 8, 2013
Step 3: Repeat if it doesn't work

• If the key still won't turn, try reversing the direction. Move the steering wheel in the opposite direction and repeat the process of wiggling the key while applying light pressure. 
• If you have a spare key, try using that, as your original key may be worn. 

This video shows what to do if the steering wheel is still locked after trying the initial steps: 1mMotoring TVYouTube · Aug 25, 2015
If the problem persists

• Check the gearshift: Make sure your automatic car is fully in Park or Neutral. If it's between gears, the key may not turn. 
• Consider lubrication: If the lock is sticky, try spraying a synthetic or PTFE (Teflon) lubricant into the ignition cylinder, as some lubricants like graphite or WD-40 can cause more problems over time. 
• Seek professional help: If these steps don't work, the problem may be with the ignition lock cylinder or the steering column itself. At this point, it's best to contact a qualified locksmith or mechanic.