What are the reasons why the Fiat key cannot be pulled out?
2 Answers
Fiat key cannot be pulled out for the following reasons: Steering wheel locked: Manifested as the steering wheel cannot be turned and even the key cannot be pulled out. First insert the key, then try to turn the steering wheel left and right while turning the key. P gear not in place: When getting off the car, the gear was not shifted to P gear, or the P gear was not truly in place because something blocked it and did not touch the electronic sensor. Just shift the gear correctly into P gear again. Foreign object blocking in the slot: When parking, there was a foreign object stuck in the key slot. Remove the foreign object, start the car, shift the gear again, confirm that it is completely back in place, and the key can be pulled out.
I've encountered this issue several times, and I bet it gave you a scare too. The most likely reason you can't pull out your Fiat key is that the steering wheel is locked. If the steering wheel wasn't straightened or was twisted when parked, the keyhole can get jammed. Gently turning the steering wheel left and right while trying to pull the key usually resolves it. Another common cause is not being in Park (P) gear. For automatic transmission vehicles, the key won't release unless shifted into P. For manual transmissions, ensure it's in neutral with the handbrake engaged—otherwise, the car might think it's still in driving mode and prevent key removal. Key corrosion or wear can also cause jamming, especially with older keys. Try cleaning the inserted part with an alcohol swab to remove grime and apply lubricant to the lock cylinder regularly. Electronic faults are another potential culprit—low battery in smart key systems or remote failure can trigger mechanical malfunctions. Try restarting the engine before shutting it off again. Safety first—don't force the key out; find a safe spot to handle it properly.
