Q: Key won't turn after inserting into ignition

asked by on June 24, 2016

The key will not turn when I put it into the ignition. The key is not locked in - it just refuses to turn after inserting it. Naturally I can’t start the car. What is wrong with the key or the ignition?

Hello. It sounds like the ignition has locked up and this is preventing your key from working properly. This sometimes happens if the components inside the ignition gets worn out and gets stuck, preventing the key from turning the ignition. I have found this to be a common problem with general motor vehicles and is easily repaired by replacing the ignition.

A locksmith may have to assist you in reprogramming the key to the new ignition. Have a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, come and complete an inspection to pinpoint exactly why your key does not turn and make recommendations about repairs.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Is it safe to Rev a car engine
Hello. It is perfectly fine to rev the engine in your car as long as you are not over doing it or holding it at a high rpm for long periods of time. If the engine is functioning normally and...
Recommendation about buying a car without a CVT
I'm assuming you're talking new. You really have a limited amount for 25 grand because cars are getting more and more expensive. I personally would buy a Toyota but try to find on that doesn't have a CVT, because I'm...
Car randomly feels like it loses power and jumps
Hello there. Many different items can cause a lack of power intermittently such as this. The most common would be the spark plugs (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/spark-plugs-replacement), wires (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ignition-cable-spark-plug-wires-replacement), fuel pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-pump-replacement), fuel filter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-filter-replacement), vacuum leak, exhaust leak or oxygen sensors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oxygen-sensor-replacement)....
Starting problems, transmission stuck on 2007 BMW 530xi
Hi. A battery light on the dashboard is the number one sign of a bad alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement). The alternator keeps the battery charged. Without a strong power source, some features on the vehicle may not function properly, which may set...
Car will not start. Will only move to ACC mode
This relates to a faulty mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement). This is a unit that monitors air intake into your engine as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the motor. When this is not working properly,...
Will a sticking valve burn out my variable valve timing solenoid?
Hi there. Typically a sticking valve does not cause the VVT solenoid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-variable-valve-timing-vvt-solenoid-last) to fail, but it can increase vacuum pressure inside the motor that will lead to other timing related issues, which can trigger the same error codes. Anytime...
my check engine light came on a few weeks ago and said it was coolant issue light went out and a few days ago it came back on
Your vehicle has less than 60,000 miles and inasmuch as you mention a possible fault in the engine cooling system, you should check for warranty coverage under Chrysler's 5 year/60,000 miles powertrain warranty. If you are not covered under the...
What is draining my car battery?
Hello There, It sounds like you may have some potentially faulty wiring that may be causing a draw on your battery when sitting for long periods of time or potentially a faulty voltage regulator that is not properly regulating the...
After changing the throttle body do we need to reset computer
Hello, thank you for writing in. There is a reset procedure for the throttle body for Nissan. It will include cycling the key "On" (not to start) for 2 seconds, and off for 10 seconds. Repeat this three times. Leave...

Related articles

How Does a Push-Button Start Work?
For the vast majority of people, cranking your car involves getting the key out, sliding it into the ignition, and turning...
5 Essential Things to Know About Your Car's Anti-Theft Device
Your Your car’s anti-theft device is installed in an effort to help protect your investment from thieves. Most cars today include a variety of these devices and systems that not only protect the car, but also deter theft in the...
How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Lost car keys can be extremely frustrating. Try to find missing keys first, then call a local locksmith to see if they can make a replacement car key.