What to Do If Your Car Key Gets Stuck in the Ignition

Auto Locksmith in Atlanta

It can happen to anyone. You’re about to head out for the day, you insert your car key into the ignition, and… it gets stuck. You twist and turn, but it just won’t budge. Frustrating, right? This can put a major dent in your plans, and you might be wondering what to do next.

Don’t panic just yet. There are a few simple steps you can take to resolve the issue before you start looking for help. If you’re dealing with a jammed key, here is a step-by-step guide to fixing the issue

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Stuck Key

If your car key is stuck in the ignition, don’t worry—there are a few simple tricks you can try before you call an Auto Locksmith in Atlanta. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Check the Steering Wheel

First, take a look at the steering wheel. If it’s locked, the ignition won’t turn, and the key will be stuck. This is a common issue, especially if you were turning the wheel before inserting the key.

  • Try gently turning the steering wheel back and forth while attempting to turn the key. Sometimes, just a little movement can unlock the steering wheel and free up the key.

Make Sure the Car is in Park (or Neutral)

This might sound simple, but it’s easy to overlook. Most cars won’t let you remove the key from the ignition unless the transmission is in the “Park” position. If your car isn’t in Park, the key may stay stuck.

  • Double-check that your car is fully in Park. If you drive a manual, make sure it’s in Neutral.

Gently Wiggle the Key

If the steering wheel isn’t locked and the car is in Park, try wiggling the key gently while applying a little bit of pressure. Don’t force the key too hard, but a small amount of wiggling can sometimes break the jam.

  • Be careful not to use too much force, as this could bend the key or damage the ignition.

Check the Key for Damage

A damaged or worn-out key could be causing the issue. Inspect the key closely for any signs of wear, bending, or cracking.

  • If the key is damaged, it might be worth having a new one cut to avoid further issues. A professional locksmith can quickly provide a replacement key.

Also Read: What to do when you are locked out of your car?

Turn the Key Back and Forth

If the key isn’t budging, try turning it gently in the opposite direction and then back to the original position. Sometimes, the ignition switch gets stuck, and this simple motion can free up the key.

  • If the key isn’t turning at all, it could indicate a deeper issue with the ignition or steering wheel lock.

Try Using Lubricant

Sometimes, the key gets stuck because of friction or debris inside the ignition switch. If that’s the case, you can try using a lubricant to help free the key.

  • Spray a small amount of graphite lubricant into the keyhole. Graphite works better than oil-based lubricants because it doesn’t attract dust or dirt.
  • Avoid using WD-40 or other oil-based lubricants, as these can leave a sticky residue that makes the problem worse over time.

Inspect the Battery

A weak or dead battery can sometimes cause the ignition system to malfunction. If you’ve already tried the above steps and the key still won’t budge, check your car’s battery.

  • If the battery is dead, jump-starting the car may help. Once the battery is fully charged, try turning the key again.

Check for Debris

Debris inside the ignition switch or around the key can cause it to stick. If you see dirt, dust, or small particles in the keyhole, you can try gently cleaning it out.

  • Use a soft brush to remove debris from the ignition. You can also use compressed air to blow out any dust that might be inside the switch.

Call an Auto Locksmith in Atlanta

If you’ve tried all the above steps and the key is still stuck, it’s time to call in the professionals. An Auto Locksmith in Atlanta can assess the situation and fix the problem quickly and safely.

  • A locksmith can diagnose issues with the ignition switch, key fob, or steering wheel lock that might be causing the key to stick.
  • They have the tools and expertise to remove the key without causing any damage to your vehicle. In some cases, they may need to rekey the ignition or replace the ignition switch altogether.

Tips to Prevent Future Problems

Once you’ve resolved the stuck key issue, there are a few things you can do to prevent it from happening again:

  • Regularly maintain your key by inspecting it for damage and getting it replaced when necessary.
  • Keep the ignition clean by using a graphite lubricant every once in a while to reduce friction and keep the key turning smoothly.
  • Keep your car battery in good shape to avoid ignition issues in the future.
  • Avoid turning the steering wheel too much when removing or inserting the key. This will prevent the steering wheel lock from engaging too tightly.

Contact The Atlanta Locksmith for Expert Auto Locksmith Assistance

A stuck car key is a major inconvenience, but it doesn’t always have to be a huge hassle. Most of the time, it’s something you can easily fix yourself. However, if you’re unable to resolve the issue, it’s always a good idea to call a professional. Don’t wait until you’re stuck in a parking lot with no way to start your car.

If you’re in Atlanta and need assistance with a stuck key or ignition issue, contact The Atlanta Locksmith. We offer quick, reliable, and affordable services to get you back on the road in no time. Whether it’s key replacement, ignition repair, or emergency lockout services, we’re here to help with all your automotive locksmith needs.

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