What Causes the Car Key to Not Turn?
2 Answers
Car key not turning is caused by the steering wheel being locked. The solution is to turn the steering wheel left and right while turning the key. If the steering wheel is turned when the vehicle is off, the steering lock pin inside the steering wheel will engage with the steering column, locking the steering wheel. Simply turn the key while slightly moving the steering wheel to release the lock pin. Avoid keeping the car key with bank cards, phones, or other items for extended periods to prevent interference with internal sensors. When the spare key is not in use for a long time, remove the battery to prevent power drain. It is recommended that car owners protect their keys properly and avoid leaving spare keys inside the car.
The issue of the car key not turning is something I've encountered frequently over my 20 years of driving, with the steering wheel lock being the most common cause. If the steering wheel is at an angle after parking and turning off the engine, the locking mechanism can jam the keyhole, preventing the key from turning. In this case, gently wiggle the steering wheel left and right while turning the key to unlock it. Another possible reason is key wear or damage; prolonged use can flatten or deform the key teeth, allowing insertion but preventing turning. There could also be internal issues with the ignition switch, such as dust buildup or mechanical parts rusting and jamming. Once, my car had this problem, and forcing the key nearly destroyed the lock cylinder, leading to expensive repairs. My advice is not to use excessive force when encountering this issue; first, check the steering wheel lock and key condition, and try using a spare key. If it still doesn't unlock, seek professional repair immediately without delay.
