What To Do, Car Key Stuck in Ignition

Here’s how the story tends to go: the individual ran to the grocery store, or to run an errand. When they pulled in the driveway and shut off the engine, they went to pull out the transponder key – this is what you usually do when trying to shut off the vehicle, right? Of course. But, when the individual went to pull out the key, they realized something was off – they realized that they could not remove the key from the ignition cylinder. They sit there confused for a moment, then realize that there is a solution – they can gently pull the key while turning the steering wheel from side to side. They realize this does not work. The next step is that they make sure the vehicle is definitely off, and that they didn’t just fail to turn the key all the way. When they realize that the vehicle is indeed off, they’re left confused – how could the key become stuck in the ignition? Believe it or not, this happens, and it is something that is a common issue for automotive locksmiths to deal with. The good news is that you do have an option if this happens to you – you can call an automotive locksmith in your location for assistance.

But what do you do if the car key is definitely stuck in the ignition? What happens if you have tried gently turning the steering wheel from one side to another while pulling on the key? What happens if you yank the key too hard and half of it breaks off? This is also something that can happen!

Let’s take a look at what you should do if your car key becomes trapped in the ignition…

1. Ensure the key is truly stuck. You can do this by, as previously mentioned, tugging lightly on the key without using too much force, while turning the steering wheel from side to side. If the steering wheel is stuck in the wrong position, it might be holding the key trapped in place. Do not yank forcefully on the key, because this might damage the ignition cylinder or cause the key to break in half. If your steering wheel is locked, the key might be trapped, which is why it is important to try this before forcing the key out or assuming that it is definitely stuck.
2. Make sure that you did in fact shut the engine off. If it’s not off, you shouldn’t be able to pull the key out. This might seem like common sense, but if you are panicked at all, it can be difficult to think clearly.
3. See if the key is broken off in the ignition. Yes, this does happen. An automotive locksmith will be familiar with this sort of problem. This might happen if you are using a key that is broken or damaged in any way. Don’t ignore potential concerns when it comes to the appearance or even the maintenance of your vehicle’s keys. If you are able to get the part of the key that is trapped out of the ignition cylinder, then you might be able to go ahead and use your spare key, depending on if the damage is in the ignition cylinder or if it is the key itself.
4. Speaking of the ignition cylinder, make sure nothing is wrong with this component of your vehicle. If there is something wrong with this, it can cause problems with your car key. You have to first determine that nothing is wrong with the key itself before you can decide that the ignition cylinder is the issue. This is a good time to turn to a locksmith who is licensed and insured, so you don’t make a mistake while trying to resolve what could actually be just a minor issue.
5. Make sure that the keyway is not blocked. This does happen. The buildup of debris and dirt can actually make it seem like the key is stuck, but in reality, you can get it out if you merely get rid of what is clogging the keyway.