How to get your car keys out of the ignition
Is it the first time he won’t come out? Have you ever broken your keys trying to get them out? Here’s what to do in every situation: Key stuck in ignition lock (first time)
1) Put the car in park gear
The most common reason why you can’t remove your key is that your car isn’t in park. Make sure the gear selector is set to “P” or “Park” for automatic transmissions, or “Neutral” for manual transmissions.
2) Unlock the steering wheel
The key may be stuck in the ignition due to a steering column lock. In some cases, a steering column lock (a security and anti-theft feature on most cars) can put additional pressure on the ignition lock mechanism, preventing the key from being removed.
Moving the steering wheel slightly will release the pressure on the lock and allow the key to slide out. How to unlock your steering wheel:
1. Try gently turning the steering wheel left and right while turning the key at the same time.
2. If the steering wheel remains locked, try turning the key to accessory mode.
3. Continue wiggling the steering wheel while turning the key until it comes loose.
3) Check if the battery is dead
To check if your battery is dead:
1. Turn on your headlights and see if they are dim or not working.
2. If your headlights are dim or won’t turn on, try jump starting your car.
3. When you try to start your car, the key may fall out of the ignition.
Key keeps getting stuck in the ignition
1. Lubrication
Try spraying a small amount of WD-40 into the ignition switch. The can should be equipped with a thin straw that fits (almost) into the space between the key and the ignition switch.
Sometimes, this additional lubrication alone may be enough to allow you to pull the key out with a slight wiggle. Once you have removed the key, inspect it for signs of damage or bends.
2. Rubbing alcohol/glue remover
If the key is not damaged but has dirt or grime on it, use rubbing alcohol or a glue remover (such as Goo Gone) to thoroughly clean the key.
If you are unable to remove the key with WD-40 and have already tried the two solutions in the section above, the problem may be with the ignition switch itself. You will need to contact a locksmith or mechanic to check this, but a replacement of the ignition lock cylinder is likely in your future.
Broken ignition lock key
Remove broken car key from ignition lock
We hope this hasn’t happened to you yet, but if it has, you’re not the first. Typically, this occurs when too much force is used to remove a stuck key. Here’s what you can do:
Note: Do not try to reinsert the top half of a broken key to remove the bottom half. This will only wed the broken part further into the lock, making it more difficult to remove.
3. Key Puller
Use a key removal tool to remove a broken key. There are several different types, but this is the best for removing a broken key in a lock (any type of lock).
4. Jigsaw Blade
The blade of a jigsaw is very thin, so it often fits right next to the key in the ignition path. After inserting the key, turn it slightly so that the notches in the key grip the broken key, then slowly pull it out.
5. Tweezers/Pliers
If part of the key is still sticking out of the ignition switch, you can use tweezers or needle-nose pliers to easily pull it out.
Expert Help
Contact a Locksmith
If all else fails, or you just want to make sure you’re doing everything right, call a locksmith.
In some cases, they may also be able to repair or replace worn or broken keys that are causing the problem. Remember, you’re not the first person to have had your key stuck in the ignition. Locksmiths deal with this problem all the time.
Manufacturer Recalls
It’s worth checking to see if there have been any manufacturer recalls related to your ignition problem. Automobile recalls occur when manufacturers find safety-related issues or violations of federal safety standards.
As mentioned above, visit the NHTSA website or contact your local dealer to see if your vehicle is subject to a recall.
Technical Service Bulletins
Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) may also contain information on how to fix a key stuck in the ignition issue.
A TSB is not a recall, but it does indicate that the manufacturer is aware of the problem and may be able to provide information on how to fix it.
Preventing a Stuck Key
Well, there are a few things you can do to lessen the odds of it happening.
1. Always make sure to use the right key for your car. Using the wrong key can quickly cause the lock to jam and the key to get stuck. So, double-check your keyring and ensure you’re inserting the correct one.
2. Avoid putting too much pressure on the key when turning it. Gently turning the key should be enough to start the engine. Applying excessive force may not only jam the key but also damage the ignition cylinder.
3. Keep your car key and ignition clean. An easy way to get rid of the gunk is to spray some WD-40 on the key and insert it into the ignition cylinder. Turn the key on and off a few times to clean and loosen any stuck debris.
4. Maintain proper alignment of your steering wheel and lock. Misaligned steering wheels can make it tougher to turn the key or even remove it from the ignition.
5. Ensure your gear selector is always in the “Park” position when trying to remove the key.