How to Fix an Ignition Key That Won't Turn

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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This common situation arises when the steering-lock mechanism binds, usually because the wheels are jammed against the curb.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Make sure the transmission is in park (for cars with automatic transmissions).
Step 2

Set the parking brake to prevent the car from rolling farther against the curb.
Step 3

Pull hard on the steering wheel while turning it in both directions. If this doesn't free the wheel, move on to step 4.
Step 4

Release the parking brake and put the transmission in neutral. Let up on the foot pedal just enough to rock the car slightly.
Step 5

Turn the steering wheel again. The key should turn now.

Tips & Warnings

To prevent the steering wheel from locking up, always set your parking brake, especially on hills.

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Comments

bernard4571 said

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on 7/9/2009 how do you get your started if the key won't turn in a 1998 cadallic catera

on 2/8/2009 This worked for me in my Honda Civic 01. If you had parked the car such that your wheels are turned, you (cannot) will not able to able to turn the Ignition key. You will not be able to turn the steering also because the anti-theft system has locked the steering. You need to insert your key to let the system know that it's a genuine owner and the at the same you try to turn your key, turn your wheel. Once the wheel turns a bit, the key will turn and start the car. The important point to note here is that: the key should be inserted JUST AT THE TIME when you try to turn the steering wheel. Good luck and if you have the owner manual handy, page 82 ('01 Civic) explains this.

celfan said

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on 12/22/2008 If you can't turn the key in frigid weather you may have frozen water in the ignition system. A common way would be dropping your key into the snow and then putting the key into the ignition. I live in Vermont and this happened to me last night and again this morning. I got an extension cord and took my hair dryer out to the car. I fired the warm air into the key entry area for a few minutes. My hair dryer shut off automatically from overheating so be careful not to press the dryer against the panel, but the key turned right away. Now I'm going to an automotive store to get some kind of spray that will get rid of the excess water that froze inside key area.