Your Key Got Stuck In The Ignition? These Tips Will Help You Remove It

Your key getting stuck in the ignition is something that happens rarely, but there is also a very high possibility. Most of the time, this happens due to poor maintenance or ignorance and a rush. Whatever the reason, your key getting stuck in the ignition can be a real inconvenience. Some didn’t know the process on how to remove a stuck key. Others even go as far as calling a mechanic. In either case, knowledge of how to solve this problem will be helpful 

1. Put Your Vehicle In “Park” or “Neutral” Mode

In automatic transmission vehicles, the ignition mechanism is designed to lock the car key automatically under certain circumstances. It won’t work if you attempt to remove your key without switching to “neutral” or “park” mode. This is a predetermined warning to you to take the necessary precautions to safeguard both you and your vehicle. If you don’t park your car in one of these positions, it’ll take a wild turn into the street and cause chaos. Instead of using another method or even starting anything, make sure your equipment is in either mode.

2. Make Sure Your Vehicle is Completely Turned Off

A car’s ignition comprises numerous layers. On the labels next to the ignition, these layers are depicted. The majority of autos lack an “off” designation. You will see a “lock” label in its place, which is equivalent to “off. Until you turn the ignition all the way down to the lock section, your automobile is not really off. Anything less than this results in your automobile simply sleeping while it is still operating.

People occasionally forget to completely shut off their ignition switch when rushing, which makes it impossible to remove the key. Avoid going into panic mode before thoroughly verifying that you have turned off your engine.

3. Verify Whether The Steering Wheel Is Locked

If you have turned your key all the way down, checked that your gear shift is in “neutral” or “park,” and are still unable to pull the key out, then you should also check your steering wheel. Is it secure? You cannot take the key out if the steering wheel is locked.

Try turning the steering wheel in both directions. Was it moving? You’ve unintentionally locked it if it is rigid and immobile. The steering lock is a safety device that is mostly found in modern vehicles to stop a car from driving when the ignition key is not in the lock or when the automobile when the incorrect key is put into it. Your best interests are served. You don’t want anyone using the wrong key to steal your automobile.

When the steering wheel is locked, the key cannot be removed from the ignition. Continue doing this until the steering is released. Once that is done, gently remove the key after turning it all the way down to ensure a complete lock.

4. Make Sure The Keyway Is Clear Of  Any Obstructions

If there is something blocking your key from exiting the keyway, it cannot be removed. You might wonder what could hinder the keyway. Dirt. Debris from the key may become twisted in the ground and become immobile.

To remove any dirt holding it back, carefully turn the key in place consistently. Apply lubricant to it to soften the keyway if this does not work.

5. Make Sure The key Is Intact

The inner part of the key may break in the ignition while you’re attempting to remove it. The likelihood of this occurring increases if you are using a duplicate key. The strength of duplicate keys is inferior to that of genuine ones. Avoid attempting to force it out. Use a key extractor tool if gently trying to remove it doesn’t work. Call a locksmith to remove it if this doesn’t work.

6. Verify That Your Battery Is On

Some contemporary vehicles have software that locks the keys when the computer doesn’t receive electricity. It aids in guarding against unauthorized access. By turning on your headlights, you can see if your battery is still active. Your battery is dead if the lights don’t turn on. Ask someone to assist you in starting it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Your key getting stuck in the ignition does not have to be a big problem. It can be handled by you, and you don’t need the help of a mechanic. If you take note of the tips, it will make the process very easy. But, it is advised that after testing out these steps, if you still can’t get it out, you can go ahead and call your mechanic.