What Causes the Key to Fail in Unlocking or Turning the Lock?
3 Answers
Here are the reasons why the key cannot unlock or turn the lock: 1. The vehicle's steering wheel lock is in the locked state. 2. The anti-theft chip in the vehicle's remote key has malfunctioned. 3. The vehicle's ignition switch has failed. There are four ignition methods for vehicles. Here is the detailed introduction: 1. The first ignition method: using a traditional mechanical key to activate the ignition switch and start the vehicle. 2. The second ignition method: using a smart key to start the vehicle with a push-button start. 3. The third ignition method: remotely starting the vehicle using the vehicle's remote control. 4. The fourth ignition method: starting the vehicle through a mobile app software.
I've encountered situations where the key wouldn't turn, usually because the key itself is severely worn or dust/rust has entered the lock cylinder causing it to jam. For example, in cold winter when metal contracts more noticeably, the key may get stuck after insertion. When handling this, I first lightly spray some lubricant inside, wait a minute or two, then gently wiggle the key to distribute the grease evenly before attempting to turn it. If it still doesn't work, it might be due to broken internal springs or a deformed key that needs replacement. Never force it as you might break the key or damage the lock - the gain wouldn't outweigh the loss. For regular maintenance, I recommend periodically checking the keyhole, cleaning it, and spraying anti-rust oil to prevent such embarrassing situations where you can't open the car door at critical moments, delaying trips and potentially creating safety hazards - this deserves serious attention.
Last week, my car also had the annoying issue of the key getting stuck, which nearly drove me crazy. A car-savvy friend told me that common causes are insufficient lubrication or small objects blocking the keyhole. I tried dripping some cooking oil on the key and slowly twisting it, and it actually loosened up. Weather definitely plays a big role—snowy days make this more likely to happen. My personal advice: if your old key is noticeably worn, either sand it down or get a new one—don’t just make do. You can also gently jiggle the door handle to loosen it a bit, but avoid using excessive force. Always carry a spare key for emergencies—safety comes first. Getting stuck in a parking lot with no help in sight is just awful. Addressing the issue promptly will give you peace of mind while driving.
