7 Reasons Your Car Key is Stuck in the Ignition

Identifying the cause enables you to resolve it more quickly. Here are seven possible reasons.

1. Your Car Isn't in Park Mode

Present-day automatic cars include a safety system that prevents key removal while vehicles are not parked.  The key becomes trapped when you select "Drive" or "Neutral" instead of "Park" as your gear position. 

Putting your gear selector into the "Park" position usually resolves the issue. A defective gear shifter could be the cause of the key remaining stuck if "Park" mode fails to solve the issue.

2. Dirt or Debris Inside the Ignition Cylinder

Long-term exposure to dirt and dust, together with small debris inside the ignition cylinder, makes key turning and removal more complicated. 

Wiggling the key gently will help you if you encounter resistance while trying to insert or remove it.  Also, cleaning the ignition slot with a can of compressed air might solve the problem but if it persists, visit a locksmith shop for help.

3. A Damaged or Worn-Out Key

The constant use of car keys leads to damage that results in bent, chipped, or worn-down teeth. The absence of proper alignment between a damaged key and ignition pins makes key extraction even more challenging. 

A professional auto locksmith will check your key and may need to provide a replacement, if necessary. 

4. Malfunction of the Ignition Cylinder

Over time, the ignition cylinder tends to show signs of wear and tear due to constant usage. When internal parts such as tumblers and pins become misaligned, it prevents both the key from turning and its removal. 

When a malfunction occurs, a locksmith can both fix and replace the faulty ignition system.

5. The Steering Wheel is Locked

You may experience key ignition malfunctions when your steering wheel maintains a locked position. This occurs when the wheel experiences sudden sharp turns in one direction while it remains in the ignition.

To solve this issue, slowly rotate the wheel to the left and right while trying to remove the key.  

Plus, auto locksmiths in Marietta are available to resolve the issue if it persists. Get in touch with them.

6. A Dead Car Battery

Surprisingly, a dead battery may prevent you from removing the key. Modern cars require battery power to enable the proper operation of electronic ignition systems. You should attempt to jumpstart your vehicle when the battery dies before continuing your key extraction attempts. 

Contact GreenPro Locksmith for additional help when the problem fails to resolve.

7. Faulty Key Release Mechanism 

Some cars require users to activate either the button or switch to enable key removal.  The key may become stuck if the mechanism faces damage or breaks.

A locksmith in Norcross, GA can inspect the release mechanism to identify any underlying issues while working on their repair.

We are here to help 

Securing rapid help for a stuck car key becomes more achievable by identifying the root cause. GreenPro Locksmith helps customers tackle all difficulties, whether it is a simple fix or a challenging one. You can receive dependable assistance from our expert team swiftly.

Do you need help right away? Reach out to GreenPro Locksmith without delay.