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Phoenix Car Keys Ltd, Company number: 15609407, Registered in England
Many UK drivers have faced the frustrating situation of a key stuck in the ignition. There are several possible causes, and fortunately, a variety of solutions. This guide explores the most common issues and how to resolve them.
If your car key is stuck when trying to start or stop the vehicle, first ensure the ignition is completely turned off. Check that the engine is off and the key is turned fully counterclockwise.
Over time, the teeth of the key may wear down, especially if the key is made of less durable material.
What to do: Compare the key to a spare. If it shows signs of wear, consider replacing it. If you need to drive immediately, try gently turning the key left and right to engage the mechanism.
One common reason for a stuck key is the steering wheel lock, part of the car’s anti-theft system. This often happens if the key isn’t fully inserted or turned.
What to do: Carefully move the steering wheel and the key from side to side. Be gentle to avoid damage. Spend up to 10 minutes finding the right position where the key will release and the steering wheel unlocks.
A flat battery can sometimes cause the key to stick in the ignition.
What to do: Check if the headlights turn on. If they don’t, the battery may be flat. Use a voltmeter to check the voltage—if it’s below 11.7V, charge or replace the battery. If stuck, call a mobile auto assistance service to recharge the battery.
Some cars lack protective plates for the ignition keyhole, leading to dirt and debris build-up, which can jam the key.
What to do: Use WD-40 or a similar penetrating oil to clean the keyhole. Blow out debris with compressed air and clean the key with a lint-free cloth moistened with WD-40 or rubbing alcohol.
During winter, condensation inside the ignition can freeze, making the key stick.
What to do: Turn on the car’s heater to warm the interior. To speed things up, heat the key with a lighter or use a hairdryer to thaw the ignition. Lock de-icers can also help. To prevent freezing, ventilate the car before leaving it parked in cold weather.
In cars with automatic transmission, the key is locked in the ignition unless the gearshift is in “Park.”
What to do: Confirm the gearshift lever is in “Park.” If it’s not, press the brake pedal and move it to the correct position before removing the key. For manual transmissions, press the clutch pedal and set the gear to neutral.
Keys can become bent or break from improper use or carrying them in pockets.
What to do: If the key is bent, avoid using it to prevent further damage. Use a spare instead. If the bent or broken key is stuck, contact professionals, such as Phoenix Car Keys, to safely extract it and avoid costly repairs.
Over time, the ignition cylinder may wear out, particularly if the key fob carries heavy objects.
What to do: If you can remove the key, switch to a spare. If the problem persists, the cylinder likely needs replacement at a service centre.
Follow these tips to avoid issues with your ignition key:
We hope that this article was useful to you and you were able to solve the problem effectively. But, if you realised that the solution requires professional help, feel free to call us! We are always ready to assist you in solving any car key related problems, such as ignition barrel replacement or emergency car unlocking service.
To order our services or to get more information, call us 24/7. We provide services throughout the UK, so we can help you no matter where your vehicle is located.