Why Can the Key Be Inserted but Not Turned?
2 Answers
The reason why the key can be inserted but not turned is due to the steering wheel lock, which is one of the basic anti-theft designs of a car. Sometimes, when the steering wheel lock gets stuck at a certain angle, the key cannot be turned. In this case, gently wiggle the steering wheel left and right to create a small gap, then try turning the key, and it should rotate smoothly. The steering wheel lock is an effective anti-theft tool for cars. When you find that the key cannot be turned, never force it, as this can easily cause the key to bend or even break. Generally, after parking the car, turning the steering wheel slightly to the left will engage the lock. If the steering wheel is straightened, it will not lock. To unlock, turn the steering wheel to the left a few times while simultaneously turning the ignition switch, and the lock will release.
I've encountered this situation where the key can be inserted but won't turn multiple times when driving older cars, mainly because the steering wheel is stuck in a locked position—it locks when turned to the limit after the engine is off. Gently wiggling the steering wheel left and right while turning the key usually unlocks it. There are other common reasons too, like worn key teeth or dust accumulation in the lock cylinder. Over time, the key tip may wear down or dust may clog the lock, requiring cleaning or a new key. In cold weather, it might also freeze, so using a hairdryer to warm it up can help. I recommend not forcing the key too hard to avoid damaging the lock cylinder, and avoiding hanging heavy objects on the keychain to prevent vibration wear. Regular maintenance with a dedicated lubricant spray should suffice, but if the problem persists, it's best to visit a repair shop—safety first, don't force it. A repair shop has the tools to handle it easily.
