Why Can't the Car Key Be Pulled Out?
2 Answers
Reasons why the car key cannot be pulled out: 1. The P gear is not fully engaged: This situation is more common in automatic transmission cars. If the gear is not fully engaged, the electronic sensor will not be triggered; 2. The steering wheel is locked. Solutions for a stuck car key: 1. Check if there are any items obstructing the gear from returning to its position, remove any debris, shift the gear again, and then pull out the key; 2. Slowly turn the steering wheel. Once the steering wheel is unlocked, the key can be pulled out. When storing and using remote-controlled keys, pay attention to waterproofing and moisture prevention. Avoid frequently pressing the buttons of the remote key far away from the car to prevent the need for re-pairing the remote key.
I've been driving for over twenty years and have encountered the issue of the key not coming out several times. The most common reason is when an automatic transmission car isn't shifted into the P (Park) position. The system is designed with a safety lock to prevent accidental operation while driving. If the gear is correctly positioned, the steering wheel might be locked, jamming the key. Gently turning the steering wheel left and right can release it—no need to use excessive force. Another possibility is insufficient battery power, causing unstable power supply to the key system. Try starting the engine and then removing the key. If it still doesn’t work, the key or lock cylinder might be worn out or jammed with foreign objects. Check for excessive dust or long-term wear. To avoid such issues, always ensure the gear is properly engaged when parking and maintain the keyhole regularly. Most importantly, don’t force the key out to avoid damaging anything.
