What to Do When the Car is Locked and Won't Start

[McJonathan]

When the engine is mistakenly locked, use the battery disconnection method to force a reset. First, open the front engine compartment and disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for about five minutes. You can also seek help from a 4S shop. The staff at the 4S shop will use professional diagnostic equipment to reset the vehicle's anti-theft system.

[LeCalvin]

Once my car suddenly locked up and wouldn't start when parked on the roadside, making me sweat with anxiety. First, check if the battery is dead—common causes include battery aging or discharge. Try a jump start by asking a friend's car for assistance. If the battery isn't the issue, the engine might be locked by the anti-theft system, possibly due to a weak remote key battery or signal interference. Try using the mechanical key to open the door and then start the ignition. Sometimes, the steering wheel locks—turn it a few times to release. If nothing works, don’t force it to avoid damaging the circuits; call a tow truck immediately to check the fuses or ignition module at a repair shop. This situation can be dangerous, especially at night in remote areas—always prioritize safety.