Despite the panic-inducing nature of this problem, you can deal with it yourself using several methods.
The first thing you should do if you’re driving a car with a physical key and it’s stuck is to make sure the car is in park. If it’s still in drive, it won’t come out. Still not working? Don’t panic! There are some other things we can try.
Stuck keys are usually easily fixed and can take anywhere from a few seconds to several hours to resolve, depending on whether the ignition module needs to be replaced. There is also a moderately difficult job to be done, which we will cover as well.
Some lock lubricant, like this or this, or careful dexterity might be all you need to get a sticky key out of the ignition.
A screwdriver set with flat and Phillips head screwdrivers, pliers, a replacement key, and an ignition switch specific to your car are required for a successful ignition module replacement.
You might be able to use a universal ignition switch on an older car. For your specific car, you should refer to a maintenance manual on a regular basis. Before diving in, it’s worth researching how the process works for your car in particular before committing. We’ll give you an overview and universal tips, but it’s worth checking out how it works for your car personally as well.
What To Do When Your Key Is Stuck in the Ignition
Make Sure You’re in Park
If you shut your car off before putting it in park, you probably won’t be able to get the key out. This is a common user error—make sure your shifter is in “P” before you get too nervous. If it’s still in drive, just put it in park and try the key again. If that works for you, great!
Do not panic if this does not happen. There is still a lot that can be done to solve this problem.
Try a gentle, but deliberate, motion in jiggling the key
If you have an old worn key, or maybe some pocket lint got caught on it, you might need to replace it. Try giggling gently. Keeping keys safe means not forcing them, since they can bend or break more easily than you might expect.
You might also want to try moving the steering wheel a little bit. You might have activated the steering lock and got your key stuck in it.
Check for buttons near the ignition
The ignition might be equipped with an aftermarket locking system or some type of unusual locking system. In a new car, especially if you don’t know where the key goes, look for a button near it.
Try a lock lubricant
There are many websites that offer lock lubricant (such as this, this, or this link that I included earlier), but you can also find it at hardware stores and auto parts stores.
If you were able to take the key out of the cylinder, you would squirt the fluid in, but since that’s not possible, you will just have to be a little more precise with your aim. Although it may still be possible, it shouldn’t be a problem.
One word of advice: Choose a lock lube you can trust and stick with it. It is possible that the wet and the dry will negatively interact with one another, creating an even more sticky situation.
Call an old car specialist
In the event that neither of the above methods are working for you, you may be able to find a mechanic who specializes in the make and model of your car by searching the internet. Getting advice over the phone about how to fix a stuck key for these cars is straightforward enough that you might get lucky and find someone who knows the “one weird trick” that works.
However, don’t waste your time with dealerships. There’s a good chance most of them haven’t seen a physical key in several years.
Prepare to replace the ignition module
If you have a really good key that is stuck, you may need to replace the ignition module. Therefore, you will have to decide whether to do this yourself or outsource it. You can hire a locksmith or a shop or you can do it yourself. The key might not even turn if you don’t have the money to pay a professional.
In the case that the key won’t come out but the ignition module is still working, it’s not too challenging to replace the module. You might want to read on if you’re considering trying it out.
Disconnect battery and access steering column
You need to disconnect the negative terminal on the battery of your vehicle. After removing the trim from around the steering wheel, you can remove the wheel itself. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, there may be more than one part to remove. If left out in the sun for years, these plastics can become brittle. Don’t pull anything too hard before you’ve removed all the screws.
Turn your key to accessory mode
Do not start the car after you insert the key and turn the switch to accessory mode.
Remove Ignition Module
To release the ignition switch, use a screwdriver to push the release pin. The small hole can only be accessed with a narrow screwdriver. You should be able to remove the ignition module easily once the pin has been removed.
Insert New Ignition Module
The new module can be inserted into the ignition hole on the steering column by simply pressing the release pin. Once the pin has been seated properly, you should hear a click. If you don’t hear a sound after you turn the switch on, keep working it.
Test new ignition switch
You will need to test the new switch before you reassemble the interior trim. You can do this by reconnecting the battery and making sure that the new ignition switch is installed properly. If everything is working correctly, the vehicle should crank right up, and the key should be able to be inserted and removed with ease. It is possible that you installed the switch incorrectly. Review the steps you took to ensure that it was installed correctly.
Almost all of the work is done if the engine cranks properly. The battery should be disconnected again after the ignition is turned off.
Reinstall interior
In order to reinstall your vehicle’s interior, make sure to replace the pieces in the same order that they were removed.
Reconnect battery, make final interior checks
Once the battery has been reconnected, you’re done.
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Video
Check out The Original Mechanic’s video below for instructions on how to fix your ignition switch.
Conclusion for Replacing a Broken Ignition Switch
Turning the key and not hearing any noise from the starter motor might indicate that something is wrong under the hood rather than with the ignition switch. Disassembling your car’s steering column shouldn’t be done until you’ve ruled out the key issue.
It is most likely the steering wheel locking mechanism that is responsible for a stuck ignition key. It is possible for the steering wheel to lock when the vehicle is parked. Additionally, this prevents the key from being turned or removed from the ignition switch, which is a great way to prevent theft. There are times when it is not the ignition or the vehicle that is the problem. An ignition switch can become jammed due to a worn or damaged key. You may have difficulty removing the key if you pull or yank on it, and this can cause major damage to the ignition.
