What to Do When the Car Key Won't Turn?
2 Answers
The solution to a car key that won't turn is: first insert the key into the keyhole, then turn the steering wheel left and right with your left hand while turning the key with your right hand until the key can be turned. After removing the key, if the steering wheel is turned left or right or the wheels are not straight when parked, the force can cause the steering wheel to turn, triggering the steering wheel's self-locking function. Once this happens, the steering wheel cannot be moved, and even inserting the key and applying force won't turn it. This is a common anti-theft feature found in most cars. Another issue is when the key cannot be removed after turning off the engine, which often occurs in automatic transmission models. This happens when the gear shift is not fully returned to the P (Park) position. Sometimes it may appear to be in place but hasn't triggered the electronic sensor, or there might be obstacles like coins in the gear slot preventing it from returning fully. The solution is to check if there are any foreign objects in the gear slot or restart the car and shift the gear to ensure it is properly engaged, allowing the key to be removed.
When I find the car key won't turn, it's usually because the steering wheel is locked. This is quite common when the wheels aren't straightened after parking, causing the lock cylinder to jam. I'll first try lightly pressing the brake, then gently wiggle the steering wheel left and right with my right hand while turning the key with my left. If it feels loose, the car can start. If not, the key might be bent or worn and needs to be inspected for damage. Never force it, as this could damage the ignition lock cylinder, leading to costly repairs. Forming a habit of straightening the steering wheel after parking can prevent this issue. Also, in humid weather, the lock cylinder is prone to jamming—a drop of lubricant like WD-40 (specifically for locks, not motor oil) can help.
