What to Do When Your Car Key Does Not Turn When Starting the Car?

The automotive troubles people usually think of may be simple issues like frozen door locks, flat tires or more. One unique problem is when the ignition key fails to turn when you try to start your car. There may be a pretty simple fix for it. You'll need to try a few things to see which solution works for you.

Troubleshooting Your Ignition Key

  • It may seem obvious, but double check that you are using the right key. In multiple car households, it is common for car keys to look alike. If the key you are using is the correct one, make sure you have it fully inserted in the correct position.

    Check to make sure the car is in park if it has an automatic transmission. If you have a manual transmission vehicle, press the clutch pedal firmly to the floor, and try again to turn the key.

    Turn your steering wheel while turning the key. Sometimes the steering wheel will lock, and cause the ignition to lock as well. This problem can be quickly solved by wiggling the wheel back and forth while turning your key.

    If your key has any visible defects, try a spare key. Sometimes, even small damages to the key itself can render it inoperable. If the spare key works, toss the old one and request a replacement form your dealership or continue to use the spare.

    If the key still will not turn after you have tried everything mentioned above, you may need to take your vehicle in for service. The problem could be a worn ignition, which could cause jams in the cranking mechanisms in the steering column.