What does it mean when your ignition key does not turn?

If it will not move, or moves only very slightly, it is likely locked. A locked steering wheel will not allow the ignition to engage. When you move the wheel back and forth, you will feel it stop abruptly as it comes into contact with the steering wheel lock.

What to do if your ignition switch is stuck?

Step 1 – All vehicles have a steering wheel lockout safety device that will not allow the steering wheel to turn when the key is in the “OFF” position. Step 2 – Vehicles equipped with power steering utilize a pump which maintains pressure while the engine is running.

Why does my steering wheel lock when I Turn Off the engine?

If you turn off the engine with the steering wheel turned or turn the steering wheel after turning off the engine, the steering wheel lock can bind and prevent you from turning the ignition. How To Fix It: Fortunately, this is an easy fix. Just turn the wheel back and forth until the ignition cylinder is freed.

What happens when you turn on the ignition switch?

If only the “START” circuit is affected, the dashboard and all accessories may power up when you turn the key, but the engine won’t crank. On the other hand, if the “ON” circuit is open or short, turning the ignition switch might start the engine but fail to trigger some of the relays.

Why is the ignition switch on my car not turning?

The shaft between the switch and key lock or the arm inside the switch are the ones that usually break. This happens when the driver uses too much force on the key when trying to start the engine. The pins inside the ignition lock may also break with time, preventing the key from turning.

What should I do if my ignition key won’t turn?

Average rating from 41 customers who received a Ignition key does not turn Inspection. It can be frustrating when you insert your key into your car’s ignition and it refuses to turn. Your mind races with all the possibilities of what could be going wrong, but luckily, most ignition key issues are not only common, but also quick to fix.

How can I get a new ignition key?

Depending on the vehicle, the dealership may be able to produce a new key using your vehicle’s VIN number. You will need to provide sufficient evidence of ownership of the vehicle. If a new key cannot be produced, you will need to purchase a new ignition module with matching key and have it installed.

Why does my car not start when I put the key in?

Putting the key in the ignition switch and starting the car feels like second nature. However, if your car has ignition switch problems, you may not be able to start the car at all. Ignition switch problems can also cause issues on the road, such as unexpected shutdowns or electrical problems.

What to do if your ignition key is bent?

Bent keys can sometimes enter the ignition cylinder, but once inside will not line up correctly to allow the car to start. If your key looks visually bent, you can use a non-metal hammer to carefully flatten the key down. Your goal is to use something that will not damage the key, so ideally this would be made of rubber or wood.

What happens if you don’t turn the ignition key?

Sometimes the ignition key won’t turn or rotate. If that happens the vehicle won’t start, the steering wheel won’t turn and it won’t shift into gear. On a late 90’s or early 2000 GM vehicle this is the way to get it apart so you can replace the tumbler.

How can you tell if your ignition key is locked?

Check to see if your steering wheel is locked by trying to turn the wheel. If it will not move, or moves only very slightly, it is likely locked. A locked steering wheel will not allow the ignition to engage. When you move the wheel back and forth, you will feel it stop abruptly as it comes into contact with the steering wheel lock.

How can I get my second key out of the ignition?

Solution 2: If you are away from home and your second key when this happens, you can try pulling the key out of the ignition lock very slightly, by about a sixteenth of an inch, before you try turning it. If you’re lucky, this may allow you to engage the lock pins, turn the key and start the vehicle. Do you keep your car keys in your pocket?

What does it mean when the key won’t come out?

What I mean is you can change the gears without pushing the button on the side of the gear shifter so I didn’t know if this may be the problem since the key won’t cut off or come out if the car is not in park. My car has 999999 miles. My car has an automatic transmission. It is either the ignition switch electrical or the ignition lock cylinder.

Why does my steering wheel not turn when I turn the key?

Turn the Steering Wheel The most common reason that a car key will not turn is that the steering wheel has locked. This will happen when the steering wheel has been moved after the key has been removed from the ignition cylinder. Turn the steering wheel to the right and left.

What to do if your steering wheel won’t turn on?

Steering Wheel & Ignition Key Won’t Turn On Car – Easy Fix! – YouTube How Compelling Is Your Writing? If playback doesn’t begin shortly, try restarting your device.

Can a bad ignition switch cause a car not to start?

However, if your car has ignition switch problems, you may not be able to start the car at all. Ignition switch problems can also cause issues on the road, such as unexpected shutdowns or electrical problems.

What’s the best way to turn the steering wheel?

Turn the key toward the accessory position while keeping the steering wheel turned. If nothing happens, rock the steering wheel as you turn the key. If this does not work, rock the steering wheel as you jiggle the key in the ignition. You can mix and match with the methods of turning the wheel and moving the key.

Do you have to have a new ignition cylinder installed?

Just like having a new key cut, you will need to demonstrate sufficient ownership of the vehicle in order to have a new ignition cylinder installed. A new ignition cylinder will likely require replacing your key, even if it wasn’t the issue.

What to do when your car key won’t turn in?

You can use WD40 as long as you are going to be changing out the ignition cylinder after you turn the key successfully. When you are going to replace it anyway, it gunking up further over time does not matter. Gather your lubricant, key, and cloth. Spray the lubricant into the keyway of the ignition cylinder.

Why does my car key not turn in the ignition?

A very common reason a car key won’t turn in the ignition is that the keyway of the ignition cylinder is a little jammed up. Just lubricating the lock may be enough to solve your issue. You will say that WD40 is often the go-to example for lubrication of any kind, but I would not recommend it in this case.

How do you change the ignition on a car?

Find the locking pin on your ignition assembly. Use a tool of the correct size to depress the lock pin. Pull the old ignition cylinder lose. You might need to shake the ignition cylinder loose or finesse it out of its housing. Insert your new key into the new ignition cylinder. Fit the new ignition cylinder into the housing.

What to do if your car key is stuck in the ignition?

As mentioned, if your key is stuck in the ignition then you should check the gear position, the steering wheel lock, and the battery first. Any of these three things may prevent you from taking out the key from the ignition. Make sure you’re in ‘Park’, and if the steering wheel is locked, try jiggling it while pulling the key out.

Why is my key stuck in the ignition on my Dodge Caravan?

Manipulating your Caravan’s steering wheel can unbind the key. Bent – Over time and repeated use, a key can bend. If this is the case, you’ll need to get a new one. This issue often happens with cheap duplicated keys. If you do massage the key out, go ahead and throw it away.

What can I use to make my ignition key turn?

Purchase canned air from a local retail or office supply store and insert the straw from the nozzle directly into the key hole. Spray the canned air into the key hole in short spurts.

What to do if your key is stuck in the ignition?

If you believe that your key is stuck because of an obstruction in the keyway, lubricate the key and the ignition cylinder. Then use a broken key extractor tool to gently pull your key out. If this method is successful, you should make sure that you clean the keyway of the ignition afterward.

What causes a key to get stuck in the ignition?

When key gets stuck in the ignition, it can be traced back to a few common reasons. The most common issues with a key is an ignition lock cylinder failure or problems with the components related to the locking system. It is a perfect idea that if you experience a stuck key that once you get it removed…

Why is my key stuck in the ignition?

You will sometimes find that your key is stuck in the ignition because there is some form of obstruction that is prohibiting the smooth movement of your key within the ignition cylinder. In order for your key to move freely in and out of the keyway of the ignition cylinder, the cylinder has to be free of debris and dirt.

How do you remove key stuck in ignition?

Use pliers to pull out the car keys from the ignition if you can see the broken part. If the broken key inside the ignition is not visible, then take a superglue and stick the key head to the stuck part, hold it for a few minutes and then just yank it from there.

What to do if your car key won’t turn in?

Ignitions can be extremely fragile. Please do not poke around inside the ignition lock cylinder. A dirty ignition can be fixed by spraying small doses of an electrical cleaner in the ignition then gently sliding the key in and out of the ignition cylinder many times.

A locksmith can make a new key from a lock, so even if your only car key has broken off in the ignition, there is no problem getting you a replacement. When you can’t remove the car key stuck in your ignition, call a locksmith.

What happens if you break the ignition lock?

The key slides into the ignition lock cylinder. These two components mate together and essentially become one. So if either of them break, they will both be affected. In addition, there are many other small moving parts inside your steering column that are activated when you insert the key and turn it.

Why does my Saturn key not turn in?

The Saturn ignitions tend to stop turning because of worn keys and worn ignitions. (mostly worn ignitions) Vehicles Affected The GM (Buick, Cadillac, Chevy, GMC, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Pontiac) ignitions tend to fail because of wear from inserting the key at a slight angle.

Please do not poke around inside the ignition lock cylinder. A dirty ignition can be fixed by spraying small doses of an electrical cleaner in the ignition then gently sliding the key in and out of the ignition cylinder many times. ( DO NOT use this method on Honda, Acura, Toyota or any vehicle that uses a high security key ).

What to do if the key does not turn in the ignition?

If the key does not turn in the ignition, try moving the steering wheel as you try to turn the key. The steering wheel will feel completely solid if you try to move it in one direction and may move slightly in the opposite direction.

What’s the best way to turn the key in a car?

Push the steering wheel in the direction that allows a little movement and then insert the key and try to turn the key again. You can put pressure on the steering wheel and also try shaking the steering wheel. As you do this insert the key into the ignition and try to turn the key. DO NOT TRY TO FORCE THE KEY IN THE IGNITION.

Why does my Toyota Geo not turn on?

Vehicles Affected The Toyota and Geo ignitions tend to stop turning because of worn keys. A new “code” key or duplicate key may solve the problem. If a new key does not get your ignition to turn then your ignition will need to be worked on.

Why does my Gm key not turn in?

The GM (Buick, Cadillac, Chevy, GMC, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Pontiac) ignitions tend to fail because of wear from inserting the key at a slight angle. This is the same for the Chrysler vehicles (Chrysler, Dodge, Eagle, Jeep, Plymouth).

Why does my Honda Accord key not turn?

The ignition switch on my 2004 Honda Accord developed a problem. The key simply woul not turn in the ignition! I was finally able to get it to turn one day after I jammed one of the keys in to the ignition to get it to turn. But unfortunately, after that, the key would not turn in the ignition!

What does it mean when my key will not turn in my ignition?

Inspect the key for damage. If your key won’t turn when you insert it into the ignition, it may be because the key has been damaged and no longer engages the correct pins to the depth necessary to spin the cylinder. Examine the key for signs of excessive wear, rounding or broken teeth.

Why is my key not turning in ignition?

The three main reasons why an ignition key will not turn include: problems with related components, issues with the key itself, and ignition lock cylinder problems. Tip: Always make sure your parking brake is on to keep the vehicle secure when following these steps.

What to do when the ignition key won’t turn?

Method 1 of 3: Checking for Common Issues. Ensure the vehicle is in park.
Method 2 of 3: Resolving Issues with the Key. Pull the key out slightly before turning it.
Method 3 of 3: Addressing Issues with the Ignition Cylinder. Use canned air to clean the ignition port.

Can not get key out of ignition?
- otherwise the key could break off in the ignition.
- Jack up the front of the car until the wheels just leave the ground.
- Spray some Teflon dry lube into the ignition switch around the key.
- Fill a zip-type sandwich bag half full with ice.
  
  What to do if your car key won’t turn?
  
  Try to pull the key back out 1/16 of an inch, or approximately the width of a nickel, then attempt to turn it again. If this works, the key is likely over worn. You should still replace the key as soon as you can before it stops working. Wiggle the key back and forth as you turn it.
  
  Why does my Car start when I wiggle the key?
  
  Wiggling the key can make the key contact the pins from a different angle, which may allow you start the vehicle. If wiggling the key works, it means the teeth on the key are too worn to properly engage the pins. Replace the key as soon as possible if this works before the key stops working entirely.
  
  Please do not poke around inside the ignition lock cylinder. A dirty ignition can be fixed by spraying small doses of an electrical cleaner in the ignition then gently sliding the key in and out of the ignition cylinder many times. ( DO NOT use this method on Honda, Acura, Toyota or any vehicle that uses a high security key ).
  
  What to do if your Dodge Neon won’t start?
  
  If you have a Dodge Neon no crank no start condition, the first place to start diagnosis is with the battery. You must have at least 12.25 volts measured across the battery terminals to get that starter moving. And don’t think you can tell the condition of the battery terminals by looking at them—you can’t. So clean them with a wire brush.
  
  Why is my steering wheel locked without the key?
  
  Sometimes your vehicle will stop you from being able to turn the key in the ignition and the steering wheel will be locked. This can happen with a wide variety of vehicles. In order to turn the key and start the vehicle, you will have to move the steering wheel from side to side, while at the same time attempting to turn the key in the ignition.
  
  How can I Turn my key in the ignition and start my car?
  
  In order to turn the key and start the vehicle, you will have to move the steering wheel from side to side, while at the same time attempting to turn the key in the ignition. When doing the two actions at the same time you can exit the steering wheel lock and then start your vehicle. Provide a short description of the article.
  
  Why does the key not turn in the ignition?
  
  The problem is that if the wheels are turned all the way in one direction, or if the wheels are butted up against something (like a curb), then it can be very difficult to release the locking mechanism, even with the key is in the ignition. The usual solution to this is to wiggle the steering wheel while trying to turn the key.
  
  What causes a locked steering wheel to not turn in?
  
  If a locked steering wheel is the only thing preventing your key from turning the ignition, then follow our instructions below for How to Unlock a Locked Steering wheel and you will be back on the road fast. Problem 2. Dirt, pocket lint or debris (like tape from opening a package) may cause your key not to turn in your ignition lock cylinder.
  
  Bent keys can sometimes enter the ignition cylinder, but once inside will not line up correctly to allow the car to start. If your key looks visually bent, you can use a non-metal hammer to carefully flatten the key down. Your goal is to use something that will not damage the key, so ideally this would be made of rubber or wood.
  
  How do you unlock a locked steering wheel?
  
  Unlocking it will require using the ignition key in the same way you would when starting the vehicle. Insert the key into the ignition and see if it will turn. If the key will turn and start the vehicle, the wheel will unlock with the ignition cylinder.
  
  If a locked steering wheel is the only thing preventing your key from turning the ignition, then follow our instructions below for How to Unlock a Locked Steering wheel and you will be back on the road fast. Problem 2. Dirt, pocket lint or debris (like tape from opening a package) may cause your key not to turn in your ignition lock cylinder.
  
  What happens when you remove the key from the steering wheel?
  
  In many vehicles, removing the key locks the steering wheel from turning. Occasionally, because of this lock, the steering wheel can get stuck, which in turn means the vehicle key also becomes stuck and cannot move to release it.
  
  What’s the best way to unlock a steering wheel?
  
  Wiggle the wheel back and forth while turning the key. In order to unlock the steering wheel, insert the key into the ignition and attempt to turn it. While applying light pressure to the key, wiggle the steering wheel back and forth until the lock disengages. This will allow the steering wheel and the key to turn.
  
  Sometimes your vehicle will stop you from being able to turn the key in the ignition and the steering wheel will be locked. This can happen with a wide variety of vehicles. In order to turn the key and start the vehicle, you will have to move the steering wheel from side to side, while at the same time attempting to turn the key in the ignition.
  
  In order to turn the key and start the vehicle, you will have to move the steering wheel from side to side, while at the same time attempting to turn the key in the ignition. When doing the two actions at the same time you can exit the steering wheel lock and then start your vehicle. Provide a short description of the article.
  
  Wiggle the wheel back and forth while turning the key. In order to unlock the steering wheel, insert the key into the ignition and attempt to turn it. While applying light pressure to the key, wiggle the steering wheel back and forth until the lock disengages. This will allow the steering wheel and the key to turn.
  
  What to do when key won’t turn in ignition?
  
  The steering wheel can become stuck in position which in turn locks the ignition. Wiggle the steering wheel back and forth while gently turning the key to see if the key now turns. If this work, you don’t have an ignition or key problem at all, the steering wheel had just locked it up.
  
  What causes a car key to not turn over?
  
  This can trap a piece of the key inside the cylinder, causing more damage. Also known as a key cylinder, the ignition lock cylinder is another area that could be causing issues with a key turning over. Below are the two most common problems associated with the ignition lock cylinder and the key not turning.
  
  Can you turn the key and start the car at the same time?
  
  This can happen with a wide variety of vehicles. In order to turn the key and start the vehicle, you will have to move the steering wheel from side to side, while at the same time attempting to turn the key in the ignition. When doing the two actions at the same time you can exit the steering wheel lock and then start your vehicle.
  
  If the key turns in the ignition but the lights, radio, etc. are not working, this is a mechanical problem and you should get advice from a mechanic. In case the key won’t turn in the ignition, please see our recommendations here.
  
  How often should you insert and remove the ignition key?
  
  You may insert and remove the ignition key thousands of times every year, wearing the key and tumblers ever-so-slightly every time. Heavy keychains can add more stress to the ignition cylinder, increasing wear. After a while, the key may fall out of the cylinder or be unable to turn out of the lock position.
  
  What to do if your ignition cylinder is worn out?
  
  How To Fix It: Fortunately, this is an easy fix. Just turn the wheel back and forth until the ignition cylinder is freed. It’s a fact of life that mechanical things tend to wear out, and the same goes for mechanical keys and key cylinders used in your car’s ignition system.
  
  What happens if you put the wrong key in the cylinder?
  
  Factor 3: Incorrect key. Sometimes it’s a simple mistake, and the wrong key is inserted into the cylinder. This happens most often when someone has more than one car key on their key ring. Many keys look similar, especially if they are from the same make. So double check the correct key is being used to try to start the vehicle.
  
  What to do if your ignition switch won’t work?
  
  Step 7 – In extreme conditions such as high mileage or a key chain adorned with many ornaments can wear the tumbler which causes the key not to work. If the door key is same as the ignition key, the door tumbler can be removed and a key made if no security chip is installed, (older cars).
  
  Vehicles Affected The Toyota and Geo ignitions tend to stop turning because of worn keys. A new “code” key or duplicate key may solve the problem. If a new key does not get your ignition to turn then your ignition will need to be worked on.
  
  Find the locking pin on your ignition assembly. Use a tool of the correct size to depress the lock pin. Pull the old ignition cylinder lose. You might need to shake the ignition cylinder loose or finesse it out of its housing. Insert your new key into the new ignition cylinder. Fit the new ignition cylinder into the housing.
  
  Can’t Get key in ignition?
  
  A common problem when your key is stuck in the ignition is that the car battery is dead or low on voltage . Charge your car battery for some time with a car battery charger to see if it’s a low voltage problem. Low voltage can cause the ignition lock not to release the key.
  
  How do you replace a car ignition key?
  
  Take your new key to a factory dealer, preferably one who sells your make and model. Tell them you lost your ignition keys and need a replacement. The dealer can cut a new key and have it programmed on-site to work with your car and ignition.
  
  What happens if you put the wrong key in the lock?
  
  If the key turns but doesn’t engage the lock, it was installed incorrectly and/or the cylinder tailpiece is missing. You will need to take it off and make sure the piece to turn the latch is long enough to engage. However, if the key doesn’t turn, then it is the wrong key (this can be a factory mistake). Thanks!
  
  What to do if your car key does not work?
  
  Spray the lubricant into the keyway of the ignition cylinder. Wipe away the overspray or anything leaking from the keyhole. Insert the key and turn it. If this does not work, jiggle the key. If this does not work, add more lubricant and repeat.
  
  Spray the canned air into the key hole in short spurts. It should only take a few short sprays to clean out any debris. Do not spray the entire can into the key hole. The extreme cold could result in damage to the ignition cylinder. Wear eye protection when using canned air to clean the key hole to ensure no debris gets into your eyes.
  
  Wiggling the key can make the key contact the pins from a different angle, which may allow you start the vehicle. If wiggling the key works, it means the teeth on the key are too worn to properly engage the pins. Replace the key as soon as possible if this works before the key stops working entirely.
  
  Do you need a key to unlock a cylinder door?
  
  The cylinder requires a key. With double-sided units, a key is required to both lock and unlock the deadbolt no matter what side of the door you are on. A deadbolt is different than a standard keyed knob.
  
  What should I do if my ignition switch is not working?
  
  How To Fix It: After ensuring the rest of the electrical system is intact, such as fuses, relays, and circuits, replace the ignition switch. The transponder antenna surrounds the ignition cylinder. If it doesn’t recognize the transponder key, it doesn’t allow the engine to run. https://www.gettyimages.com/license/525320791
  
  What happens if there is no ignition switch?
  
  Without the key, the switch won’t move to the start or run positions, and will lock the steering wheel and gear selector. Of course, many cars made in the last 10 years or so have a push button instead of an ignition key and switch. With this design, the key fob sends a signal to the car’s computer saying it’s OK to start the vehicle.
  
  Why is my ignition lock cylinder not working?
  
  The ignition lock cylinder is connected to an electronic ignition switch, they work power on and start the vehicle. If the ignition lock cylinder wear out or breaks, it may prevent the vehicle from starting when the key is inserted and turned. A no start condition can also be caused by a wide variety of other issues,…
  
  What’s the name of the ignition lock cylinder?
  
  The ignition lock cylinder is the cylindrical tumbler and key that is used to power on and start the vehicle. While many newer vehicles are now being manufactured with push button and keyless power and starting systems, traditional ignition lock cylinders are still commonly found on many road…
  
  Why is my Ford Explorer key stuck in the ignition?
  
  All vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions have a lock that keeps the key from being removed from the ignition while the vehicle is in gear. This prevents your Explorer from “rolling off”. When the vehicle is in any other gear than park will act like neutral and roll away without the parking brake on.
  
  What to do if your ignition key is stuck in your car?
  
  The repair involves changing the ignition lock cylinder for a new one, and reprogramming the computer to accept the new keys. Ford has a passive anti-theft system (PATS) where each key has a chip, and they have to be programmed in.
  
  Why is my Ford Transit Connect key stuck in the ignition?
  
  All vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions have a lock that keeps the key from being removed from the ignition while the vehicle is in gear. This prevents your Transit Connect from “rolling off”. When the vehicle is in any other gear than park will act like neutral and roll away without the parking brake on.
  
  All vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions have a lock that keeps the key from being removed from the ignition while the vehicle is in gear. This prevents your Explorer from “rolling off”. When the vehicle is in any other gear than park will act like neutral and roll away without the parking brake on.
  
  Where is the ignition switch on a Ford?
  
  The Lock Cylinder What is often called the “ignition switch” is actually two components: the lock cylinder, and the electric switch. The lock cylinder is the housing into which a vehicle’s starter key is inserted, and the electric switch is located just behind it.
  
  What happens when your key is stuck in the ignition?
  
  When the vehicle is in any other gear than park will act like neutral and roll away without the parking brake on. Leaving the key stuck in the lock is the manufacturers way of telling you that you need to put it in park before you leave the driver’s seat. A lot of vehicles are equipped with a steering lock.
  
  Why does my ignition warning light keep coming on?
  
  One possibility is that the warning light wire is being earthed somewhere along its length. Check this by turning on the ignition and disconnecting the warning light wire. If the warning light stays on, the wire is earthing somewhere. Inspect the wire for any chafing against the bodywork and repair it with insulating tape.
  
  What happens when the lights go on but no cranking?
  
  The lights go on, but the electric start does nothing – no cranking. Please read the history below to understand more because I’ve had had several prior electrical issues. 1. A 1.5V battery. I left my bike for about 5 days a week ago. I turned the key ignition on and found the battery to be near dead.
  
  The Saturn ignitions tend to stop turning because of worn keys and worn ignitions. (mostly worn ignitions) Vehicles Affected The GM (Buick, Cadillac, Chevy, GMC, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Pontiac) ignitions tend to fail because of wear from inserting the key at a slight angle.
  
  Why does my car not light up when I Turn on the ignition?
  
  A good rule of thumb, though, is that if the instrument panel and dashboard do not light up when the key ignition is moved to the second position (between off and on), then there may be a problem with the ignition switch.
  
  Why does the ignition switch need to be in the Accessory position?
  
  The ignition switch must be in this position before the driver can remove or insert the key. Accessory: In this position, the ignition switch supplies battery power to the vehicle’s accessories, such as the radio and lights. But it doesn’t provide power to the engine control circuits.
  
  You may insert and remove the ignition key thousands of times every year, wearing the key and tumblers ever-so-slightly every time. Heavy keychains can add more stress to the ignition cylinder, increasing wear. After a while, the key may fall out of the cylinder or be unable to turn out of the lock position.
  
  Factor 3: Incorrect key. Sometimes it’s a simple mistake, and the wrong key is inserted into the cylinder. This happens most often when someone has more than one car key on their key ring. Many keys look similar, especially if they are from the same make. So double check the correct key is being used to try to start the vehicle.
  
  Why does my car key not turn when I put it in the ignition?
  
  If your key won’t turn when you insert it into the ignition, it may be because the key has been damaged and no longer engages the correct pins to the depth necessary to spin the cylinder. Examine the key for signs of excessive wear, rounding or broken teeth.
  
  What happens if you wiggle the ignition key?
  
  Be careful not to apply too much pressure. Wiggling the key can make the key contact the pins from a different angle, which may allow you start the vehicle. If wiggling the key works, it means the teeth on the key are too worn to properly engage the pins. Replace the key as soon as possible if this works before the key stops working entirely.
  
  Purchase canned air from a local retail or office supply store and insert the straw from the nozzle directly into the key hole. Spray the canned air into the key hole in short spurts.
  
  Ignitions can be extremely fragile. Please do not poke around inside the ignition lock cylinder. A dirty ignition can be fixed by spraying small doses of an electrical cleaner in the ignition then gently sliding the key in and out of the ignition cylinder many times.
  
  In many vehicles, removing the key locks the steering wheel from turning. Occasionally, because of this lock, the steering wheel can get stuck, which in turn means the vehicle key also becomes stuck and cannot move to release it.
  
  What to do if your car key is stuck?
  
  Use a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to remove any foreign material that may be stuck to the key. You can then attempt to start the car again.
  
  Why do things stay on when the ignition switch is off?
  
  Help would be appreciated. Two things can cause items powered by the key in the ON position to stay on with the key off. 1. First suspect is the IGNITION SOLENOID. Find it. It is “turned on/off” by receiving 12 VDC positive from the ignition switch.
  
  How is the ignition switch connected to the car?
  
  The ignition switch itself is connected to the ignition cylinder by a shaft or lever. Inside the ignition switch, several contacts connect vital electrical systems needed to start and run the car.
  
  What makes an ignition switch turn on or off?
  
  First suspect is the IGNITION SOLENOID. Find it. It is “turned on/off” by receiving 12 VDC positive from the ignition switch. If the points are burned, they can hang up and keep those circuits hot, even if the signal from the ignition switch is turned off.
  
  Can a unworn key turn an ignition cylinder?
  
  Or, an unworn key may not turn a worn ignition cylinder, as they haven’t “worn together.” How To Fix It: The best way to do this is to get a new lockset, with new keys and a new cylinder. You might consider getting a matched lockset that includes the door and trunk cylinders.
  
  What happens if you have an incorrect ignition code?
  
  The chip in the key transmits a specific code, of which there are millions. If this code matches the ones programmed into the vehicle, engine starting is enabled. An incorrect key code, such as from an unprogrammed key or damaged key, would prevent engine starting. Code “confusion,” such as having multiple keys can also occur, preventing ignition.
  
  What are the four positions of the ignition key?
  
  In most Ford models these two parts are combined into one unit with four positions that the starter key turns to through the ignition process: off, accessories, on, and start.
  
  What causes a key to get stuck in the steering wheel?
  
  Component 1: Steering wheel. In many vehicles, removing the key locks the steering wheel from turning. Occasionally, because of this lock, the steering wheel can get stuck, which in turn means the vehicle key also becomes stuck and cannot move to release it.
  
  A few of the most common problems include: One of the most likely culprits for a stuck ignition key is the steering wheel locking mechanism. When a vehicle is parked, the steering wheel can lock. That’s great for theft prevention, but it also prevents the key from turning or being removed from the ignition switch.
  
  Why does my key not turn when I turn the car off?
  
  When you move the wheel back and forth, you will feel it stop abruptly as it comes into contact with the steering wheel lock. If your wheel was turned slightly without you applying any pressure when you turned the car off, it still may engage the steering wheel lock.

What does it mean when your ignition key does not turn?