How To Fix A Car Key That Won’t Turn In The Ignition

You jump in the car in the morning, coffee in hand, ready to face another day of work. You go to turn the key over and nothing! With the clock ticking, you have to find a solution so that you can get on the road and get to your destination.

There are many reasons why a vehicle may not start when turning the ignition over. The ignition uses wafers, which bend as the key turns the car on. If these wafers break or crack, it can cause a host of ignition issues. This is just one of many issues that can cause your key to stop working when you put it in the ignition. Mechanical issues with your vehicle and even damage to your key can contribute to it not working properly when you try to start your car.

Here is a helpful guide to identifying the most common causes of the ignition not working and how you can make a few quick adjustments so you can be on your way.

Key Won’t Turn In The Ignition

Before you begin making adjustments to your ignition, first take a moment to look around the car to make sure there aren’t any issues that may be preventing your vehicle from turning on such as:

Though fobs are becoming more popular with new car manufacturers, many cars still rely on keys to start the vehicle. Usually, the driver will get in the car, press on the break, and turn the key in the ignition. If you turn the key and there is no response or you hear a clicking sound, it is likely time to have your ignition inspected by a professional vehicle locksmith.

One of the first things they may ask you to do is run through a list of common reasons why the key won’t turn in the ignition.

If you turn the key over and it won’t move at all, try realigning your steering wheel as mentioned earlier. There are many reasons why your wheel may be out of alignment:

• Break-in attempt
• Car shut off too quickly
• Wheels not straight when put into park
• Car not in park

Check these four indicators to see if one of them is triggering your ignition to fail when you turn the key over. Then give the wheel a quick jiggle which will allow the ignition to reset and let the key turn over easier.

If your keys won’t turn on the ignition, this may be an issue with the ignition cylinder. These issues are often difficult to detect and will require the assistance of a vehicle locksmith. If the ignition cylinder is no longer working properly, it may require replacing and this should only be done by a professional locksmith.

My Key Still Won’t Turn The Ignition

As we discussed earlier, there are many reasons why your key may not be responding when you try to turn on your vehicle. If it isn’t one of the more common reasons such as the steering column being out of alignment or a bad key, then it may be a more complex issue.

Car Safety Features

Modern cars are designed to keep you safe and prevent theft. These extra features can be a hassle if it causes your ignition to fail.

Wafers Are Damaged

There are two types of locks used in modern vehicles:

• Standard Locks that use cylindrical pins
• Auto Locks that use a wafer system

Wafers come in either one-piece or two-piece, also known as a split wafer. This type of wafer is prone to easy jamming in the cylinder which can cause the wafer to crack or break. This is a common problem in older vehicles which often require more aggressive key turning to get the vehicle to start.

Start your car as gently as possible and avoid heavy keyrings which may weigh down the key causing warping in the ignition.

Key is Worn Down

Like a house key, a car key can wear down over time. Every time you turn on the vehicle, you put stress and pressure on the key and wafters. As the key wears down, it loses its ability to align property preventing it from making contact.

A vehicle locksmith can make a new key if it is worn down to ensure your vehicle starts the first time.

Steering Wheel Locked Key Won’t Turn

Things To Try When Your Car Keys Won’t Turn

Some of the common things to try for if you are not getting a response after turning the ignition over are:

• Jiggle the Steering Wheel and Shifter – The steering column has to be locked in a certain position to turn the vehicle on properly. Giving the steering wheel a slight jerk should lock it in place. Once the wheel locks, you can insert the key and try to start the car.
• The Battery Is Dead – If you turn the ignition over and you hear a clicking sound, it is most likely the result of a dead battery. Use a battery tester to see if there is any charge left. If your battery is dead, use jumper cables to see if you can jump your vehicle. Remember to always consult your owner’s manual before using jumper cables. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid shock or damaging your vehicle.
• Use The Spare Key – If your spare key can start the vehicle, then your current key may be damaged or no longer connect with the ignition properly. See a vehicle locksmith get a replacement key that works with your ignition settings.
• Lubricate the Ignition – Some older vehicles may get rust in the ignition over time. Frequent use of a key may also alter the ignition slots or make it stiff. A silicon spray can help lubricate the ignition making it easier for the key to enter and turn over.
• Jiggle the Key – If you put the key in the ignition too quickly, it may not fit properly into the ignition. Remove the key and try again or jiggle the key around to ensure it is fitting into the vehicle’s ignition.

If you have tried all the above examples and your car key still won’t turn, it may be time to call a vehicle locksmith.

We are here for you 24/7 so you can feel confident knowing you will never be locked out of your vehicle and can get the service and replacement parts you need fast. Contact us today!