What are the reasons for the key not turning?
2 Answers
The reasons why the car key cannot be turned are as follows: 1. Issues with the vehicle's fuel and electrical circuits, requiring inspection of the vehicle's wiring and fuel lines. 2. Problems with the vehicle's electrical circuit. 3. Activation of the steering wheel's automatic locking function, which is an anti-theft feature designed to enhance vehicle security. Here are the solutions for steering wheel lock: 1. To unlock the steering wheel, first insert the mechanical key, press the vehicle's brake pedal, then rotate the steering wheel. Although the steering wheel is locked, it can still be slightly rotated. 2. While turning the steering wheel, simultaneously turn the key to complete the steering wheel unlocking procedure. At this point, the vehicle can be started normally.
Last time before driving, the key just wouldn’t turn no matter how hard I tried, leaving me frantic. Later, I learned it was due to the steering wheel lock. If the wheels aren’t straightened when parked, the system automatically locks the steering column, causing the key to get stuck. I tried gently shaking the steering wheel, and with a slight wiggle, it released. The key itself could also be the issue—wear and tear over time may deform it, or dust and debris might clog the lock cylinder. A quick clean and some lubricant spray usually fix this. For some automatic transmission cars, if the gear isn’t set to Park, the key won’t turn as a safety feature—just ensure the shifter is fully engaged. Occasionally, a faulty anti-theft system or a dead key fob battery can also interfere, though these are less common causes. For safety, if these standard fixes don’t work, avoid forcing it and risking damage—visit a repair shop instead. Routine maintenance checks on the steering system can prevent such issues proactively.
