What to Do When the Key Can't Be Pulled Out?
2 Answers
Regarding the reasons and solutions for the key not being able to be pulled out: 1. Incorrect pulling method: After parking and turning off the engine, accidentally turning the steering wheel left or right or parking with the wheels not straight can cause the steering wheel to rotate under force, activating the steering wheel's self-locking function. This causes the steering lock pin and steering column to interlock, making the steering wheel immovable, and even inserting and turning the key with force won't work. Solution: While gently turning the key with your right hand, shake the steering wheel left and right with your left hand, and the key can then be turned. 2. Incorrect gear position: The reason the key can't be pulled out after turning off the engine is that the gear is not properly engaged in the P position, not touching the electronic sensor, or there are objects like coins in the gear slot blocking proper engagement. Solution: Check if there are any obstructions in the gear slot and remove them.
I once encountered a situation where the key wouldn't come out while driving. I remember that day after parking my automatic transmission car, no matter how hard I pulled, the key wouldn't budge, which made me a bit nervous. Later, I realized that the gear shift lever wasn't in the P position—automatic transmission cars require being in P to unlock the key. I quickly shifted into P and tried pulling the key, and it came out smoothly. Another common reason is the steering wheel being locked, causing the key to get stuck; gently wiggling the steering wheel left and right can release it. If that doesn't work, it might be due to a stuck ignition switch or dust in the key slot. Since that incident, I've developed the habit of checking whether the gear is in P and the steering wheel is properly aligned when parking to avoid such minor issues. If all else fails, leave it to a professional mechanic rather than forcing the key out and damaging the parts. Prevention is key—regularly cleaning the keyhole also helps.
