What to Do When the Car Key Won't Turn?
2 Answers
The reason the car key won't turn is that the automatic steering wheel lock function has been activated. Here are the relevant details: 1. The steering wheel lock is a car anti-theft feature designed to ensure vehicle safety. The solution is to insert the key, press the brake, and gently turn the steering wheel left and right. When the steering wheel is locked, it can be slightly moved. While turning the steering wheel, turn the key to complete the steering wheel unlocking process. 2. After turning off the engine, if you turn the steering wheel left or right or if the wheels are not aligned when parked, the applied force can cause the steering wheel to turn, triggering the self-locking function. This causes the steering lock pin and steering column to engage, preventing the steering wheel from turning. At this point, the vehicle's anti-theft system perceives a theft risk, thus locking the steering wheel to serve its anti-theft purpose.
I've encountered this issue quite often during car repairs. The most common reason the key won't turn is steering wheel lock - try wiggling the steering wheel left and right while turning the key. If that doesn't work, check if the key is too worn down - flattened teeth patterns won't be recognized by the lock cylinder. Some older cars accumulate dust in the lock cylinder causing jams - spray some WD-40 into the keyhole for lubrication. If you've recently replaced the key blank, remember to get the chip reprogrammed at the dealership. By the way, for manual transmissions - is the clutch fully depressed? Automatic transmissions must be in P position to turn the key - last time there was an owner stuck in D position who couldn't start the car no matter what. As a last resort, gently tap the ignition lock housing with an iron rod - the vibration might miraculously loosen it. If none of these methods work, you'll need to call a tow truck - forcing the key will destroy the lock cylinder completely.
