What Are the Reasons Why the Key of a Manual Transmission Car Cannot Be Pulled Out?
2 Answers
After turning off the engine, the key cannot be pulled out because the gear is not fully returned to the P position. Check if there are any obstructions in the gear slot, remove them, start the car, shift the gear again, and confirm that it is fully returned to position; then the key can be pulled out. Here are some related explanations: 1. The key cannot be turned after insertion. The main reason why the key cannot be turned: The steering wheel was not returned to its proper position when the car was last parked, causing the steering wheel to lock abnormally. Shake the steering wheel left and right with your left hand, and the key can then be turned. 2. The key cannot be pulled out after turning off the engine. This phenomenon often occurs in automatic transmission cars: Check if there are any obstructions in the gear slot and remove them; start the car, shift the gear again, and confirm that it is fully returned to position; then the key can be pulled out.
I've experienced the issue of not being able to remove the key. It usually happens with manual transmission vehicles when the gear isn't in neutral after turning off the engine. Cars have a safety interlock designed to prevent you from parking in gear, which causes the key to get stuck. Another common problem is the steering wheel lock mechanism being activated. If you turn the steering wheel without straightening it when parking, the key won't come out in the locked state. A simple solution is to gently turn the steering wheel or wiggle it slightly while ensuring the gear is in neutral. Worn keyholes or keys not inserted fully can also cause sticking - try inserting the key deeper before removing. Additionally, anti-theft systems sometimes trigger falsely, requiring a reset as per the vehicle manual. Developing the habit of shifting to neutral before turning off the engine can prevent such embarrassing situations.
