You put the key in the ignition and it will not turn, or you turn off the car and the key will not come out. Before you force anything and risk snapping the key, know that the most common causes are simple: a locked steering wheel, the wrong gear, or a worn key. Here are the usual reasons, step-by-step fixes to try, and signs that the ignition itself is failing.
Quick answer
- Most often the steering wheel lock is engaged. Turn the wheel gently left and right while turning the key.
- Automatics usually need to be in Park (or Neutral) for the key to turn or come out.
- A worn or bent key, or a worn ignition cylinder, can stop the key from turning.
- Never force the key. Forcing it can snap the key or damage the ignition.
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Why Won’t My Key Turn in the Ignition?
1. The Steering Wheel Lock Is Engaged
If the steering wheel was turned slightly when the car was switched off, the steering lock can bind the ignition. Insert the key, then gently turn the steering wheel left and right while turning the key with light pressure. The lock often releases after a small wiggle.
2. The Car Is Not in Park
Automatic transmissions have a shift interlock that prevents the key from turning unless the car is in Park or Neutral. Make sure the selector is fully in Park, and press the brake pedal if your car requires it.
3. A Worn or Damaged Key
Keys wear down with age, and the cuts that match the ignition’s pins become rounded. A bent or worn key may go in but not turn. Try your spare key. If the spare works, the original key is probably worn and should be replaced (a locksmith or dealer can cut a new one).
4. A Worn or Faulty Ignition Cylinder
The ignition lock cylinder can wear out, especially on higher-mileage cars or with heavy keychains. If several keys act the same way, or the key feels loose, gritty or sticks, the cylinder may need to be repaired or replaced.
5. Dirt, Debris or Lack of Lubrication
Lint, dust and debris can gather in the lock. A lubricant designed for locks may help. Check your vehicle or lock-maker guidance, and avoid heavy oil sprays that can attract dirt over time.
6. Dead Battery or Electrical Issues
In some cars, a dead battery can keep the shift lock or key release engaged, so the key will not come out of the ignition. Many vehicles have a manual shift lock release near the gear selector. Check your owner’s manual.
7. Cold Weather
Very cold temperatures or frozen moisture in the lock can make the key stiff. Warm the key gently or try again once the car warms up.
Why Won’t My Key Come Out of the Ignition?
- Not in Park: shift fully into Park and try again.
- Steering lock or tension: wiggle the steering wheel gently while turning the key back to the lock position.
- Dead battery: a dead battery can prevent release on some vehicles. Jump-start the car or use the shift lock release if provided. See our jump starter guide.
- Worn ignition cylinder or key: if it keeps happening, have the ignition inspected.
What Not to Do
- Do not force the key or use pliers or a hammer. A snapped key in the ignition is much harder to fix.
- Do not spray large amounts of oil or solvent into the lock.
- Do not keep a heavy bunch of keys hanging from the ignition key, since the extra weight can wear the cylinder over time.
Push-Button Start and Key Fob Cars
If your car uses a push-button start, the problem is different. It may not detect the fob, the fob battery may be weak, or the brake pedal may not be pressed. Many cars let you hold the fob close to the start button as a backup. See the owner’s manual, and check our guide on a car that won’t start.
When to Call a Locksmith or Mechanic
- The key still will not turn after the steering wheel and gear checks
- Your spare key works but the main key does not (you likely need a new key)
- Both keys stick or feel loose, which may mean the ignition cylinder is failing
- The key has broken off in the ignition
- The car also will not start, crank or has electrical problems. See symptoms of a bad starter.
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Why won’t my key turn in the ignition?
The most common reasons are a locked steering wheel, the car not being fully in Park, a worn key, or a worn ignition cylinder.
How do I unlock a steering wheel that is stuck?
Gently turn the steering wheel left and right while applying light pressure to turn the key. Do not force it.
Why won’t my key come out of the ignition?
The car may not be fully in Park, the steering lock may be binding, or the battery may be dead. A worn ignition cylinder can also cause it.
Can a dead battery stop the key from turning?
On some vehicles, yes. The shift lock or key release may depend on electrical power. Check the manual for a manual release, or jump-start the car.
Is it the key or the ignition?
Try a spare key. If the spare works, the original key is probably worn. If both act the same, the ignition cylinder may be worn.
Can I fix a stuck ignition myself?
Simple fixes such as releasing the steering lock, checking Park and trying a spare key are safe to try. Replacing an ignition cylinder is best left to a locksmith or mechanic.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis. Follow your owner’s manual.