What is the reason why the Volkswagen Lavida key cannot be turned?
3 Answers
The reason why the Volkswagen Lavida key cannot be turned is that the steering wheel is locked. The solution is to gently turn the steering wheel left and right with your left hand while turning the key with your right hand simultaneously. Taking the Lavida 2021 model as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4670mm, width 1806mm, height 1474mm, wheelbase 2688mm, and fuel tank capacity 51l. The Lavida 2021 model is equipped with a 1.4T turbocharged engine, with a maximum horsepower of 150ps and a maximum power of 110kw, matched with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Its front suspension uses a MacPherson independent suspension, and the rear suspension uses a torsion beam non-independent suspension.
The issue of the Volkswagen Lavida key not turning is something I, as an experienced driver, have seen plenty of times. It's most likely the steering wheel lock not being released. After the car is turned off, the anti-theft system automatically locks the steering wheel. You just need to gently wiggle the steering wheel while turning the key to easily unlock it. It could also be due to dust accumulation or wear and tear in the key slot. When parking, make sure not to leave the steering wheel tilted and regularly spray some lubricant into the lock cylinder. Another possibility is the key battery being dead and not sending a signal—check if the remote buttons respond; if not, replace the battery. If all else fails, it might be an ignition switch fault, but that's rare. I recommend trying to release the steering lock yourself first before heading to a repair shop, and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage.
My friend's Lavida encountered this issue where the key got stuck and the car wouldn't start. It was mainly because the steering wheel anti-theft lock activated. If the steering wheel was at an angle when turning off the engine, it would lock. The solution is to turn the steering wheel slightly while turning the key. It could also be due to dirt or rust on the key itself—just clean it with a cotton swab, and avoid handling it with wet hands to prevent corrosion. Additionally, remember to check other car components. For instance, low battery voltage can affect remote sensing, and occasional issues like this are normal—don’t panic or yank too hard, as it could damage the lock cylinder. If all else fails, call a professional technician. They can diagnose the problem quickly with the right tools.
