What causes the car key to be stuck and the engine to fail to start?
4 Answers
It may be due to insufficient gasoline or a damaged circuit. The basic components of a remote key consist of the following two points: 1. Transmitter: Composed of a transmission switch, transmission antenna, integrated circuit, etc., it contains an identification code storage circuit and an amplitude modulation circuit, with a button-type lithium battery installed on the opposite side of the circuit. The transmission frequency uses radio waves, and pressing the transmission switch button once sends a signal once; 2. Receiver: After the transmitter sends the identification code using shortwave modulation, it is received by the car's shortwave antenna and enters the shortwave high-frequency amplification processor of the receiver's electronic control unit through a distributor for demodulation, where it is compared with the demodulator's identification code.
I've also encountered a situation where the car key got stuck in the ignition switch and couldn't be removed, and the car wouldn't start. That time, I turned off the car without straightening the steering wheel, causing the steering wheel lock to jam the key position. I tried gently wiggling the steering wheel while applying some force to turn the key, and it worked. This issue is common in older cars or with poor parking habits. If the steering wheel is locked tightly, the ignition system may also trigger a protection mechanism, preventing the car from starting. Additionally, insufficient battery power can cause the electronic lock to malfunction, leading to a double problem. It's recommended to ensure the steering wheel is centered before parking and to regularly check the battery condition. If the problem persists, it might be due to a worn ignition switch or an anti-theft system malfunction. It's best to have it checked at a repair shop rather than forcing the key out to avoid damaging components. Safety first, and avoid such situations at night or in congested areas.
As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I believe that issues like keys not coming out or the car not starting are mostly related to the ignition system or steering wheel lock. If the steering wheel isn't properly aligned, it can lock the key slot, preventing the ignition key from turning. Another possibility is a stuck ignition switch or poor internal contact, which affects the starting circuit. You can try slightly moving the steering wheel while turning the key, or check if the brake is properly engaged—some cars have a safety interlock mechanism. If there's still no response, it might be due to a worn-out or malfunctioning key, or a mismatched duplicate, requiring lubrication of the lock cylinder. Also, check the battery: low voltage can cause electronic systems to fail, leading to overall system confusion. Remember to test with a spare key—simple tools can often prevent major repairs.
The key cannot be pulled out and the engine won't start, with common causes being: steering wheel lock engaged, ignition switch failure, or key wear. A misaligned steering wheel can jam the lock cylinder; a faulty ignition switch prevents turning and starting; an old or poorly duplicated key may not fit. Additionally, a dead battery can disable the electronic lock, and an anti-theft system error may lock the key position. Immediate actions: gently wiggle the steering wheel to try removing the key, and check the battery connections.
