If you find yourself in a situation where the key fails to start your vehicle, there are a number of factors that may be causing this problem. Although some of these are specific to certain years, makes or models, many are quite universal and can be addressed at the driveway. The cause may be the key, the ignition cylinder, or a user error. You can try a number of methods before towing the vehicle to a repair facility to reduce the problem.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Check for common problems
Step 1. Make sure the vehicle is parked
Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission are designed not to start if the transmission is not in the park or neutral position. Starting the car while driving could cause it to lurch forward, causing damage or injury to someone. Check the gearshift lever to make sure it is fully in park or neutral. Then try turning the key again.
- Make sure the indicator on the shift lever points to the park “P” position.
- Try to get the vehicle out of the parking position and back there if possible. Then turn the key again.
Step 2. Check the key for damage
If the key does not turn when you insert it into the ignition, it is likely because it has been damaged and no longer fits the correct pins to the depth needed to turn the cylinder. Examine the key for signs of excessive wear, bending, or ground parts. Any of these signs could result in the key not starting the vehicle.
- If the key is damaged, you will need to replace it.
- Some keys require dealer programming to replace. Consult your owner's manual to verify the specific requirements of your vehicle.
Step 3. Make sure nothing is sticking to the key
Just as worn or damaged teeth can prevent the key from turning, anything stuck in it will also cause the ignition cylinder pins to engage the wrong way. If you've recently used the key to open a package (for example), there are likely pieces of tape stuck to its teeth, preventing it from working.
- Remove any debris or dirt from the key, then reinsert it to test it again.
- Avoid using keys to open packages or anything else besides starting your vehicle.
Step 4. Check if the steering wheel is locked
If you were applying pressure to the steering wheel when turning off the car, you have likely locked the steering wheel in place with the steering pin. Try turning the steering wheel to see if it is locked. If it does not move, or does so very slightly, it is probably blocked. A locked flywheel will not allow the ignition to engage.
- If you move the steering wheel back and forth, it will feel like it stops abruptly when it comes into contact with the lock.
- If the steering wheel turns slightly without any pressure when turning off the car, you can still activate the lock.
Step 5. Move the steering wheel back and forth while turning the key
To unlock the steering wheel, you must insert the key into the ignition and try to turn it. While applying light pressure to the key, move the steering wheel back and forth until the lock is released. This will make the steering wheel and key turn.
- The key will manage to turn freely in the ignition once the steering wheel is unlocked.
- If the key still won't turn after unlocking the steering wheel, then it's another problem.
Method 2 of 3: Resolve Key Issues
Step 1. Pull the key a little before turning it
If the key is just beginning to wear out, you may still be able to activate the pins needed to start the vehicle by inserting it all the way and then pulling it out slightly. Aim to pull out the key 1.5 mm (1/16 inch) or about the width of a nickel. Then try turning it one more time.
- If this works, the key is probably too worn.
- You still need to replace the key before it stops working.
Step 2. Move the key back and forth as you turn it
If pulling it out a little doesn't make it turn, try moving it up and down slightly to activate the pins on ignition. Be careful not to apply too much pressure. By moving the key, you can make it contact the pins from a different angle, allowing you to start the vehicle.
- If moving the key works, it means your teeth are too worn to activate the pins properly.
- If this procedure works, you should still replace the key as soon as possible before it completely stops working.
Step 3. Use a wooden or rubber mallet to flatten a bent key
If the key is bent, it may be impossible for you to fully insert the key or turn the ignition cylinder. Place the key on a flat, sturdy surface (such as a table). Take a heavy rubber or wooden mallet and strike the key from above to flatten it against the table.
- You may have to hit the wrench several times to fully flatten it.
- Avoid using pliers or a vise to straighten the key, as you can bend it too much in the opposite direction and reduce its strength.
Step 4. Gently slide the key in and out several times
If the key had any debris adhering to it when it was inserted, it will likely get caught in the ignition cylinder pins. Insert the key all the way and then slide it out. Repeat the process several times to try to move any debris that may have been trapped in the cylinder.
If this procedure works, the problem will likely persist until the ignition cylinder debris is cleared
Step 5. Have a new key cut to the original measurements
If the key is too damaged to work, you won't be able to duplicate it. You will also not be able to start the vehicle if you remove a duplicate of the worn or damaged key. Instead, you'll need to have your vehicle make and model dealer cut out a new key. Depending on the vehicle, the dealer can produce a new key using the chassis number.
- You will have to provide sufficient evidence that you are the owner of the vehicle.
- If it is not possible to produce a new key, you will have to buy a new ignition module with the corresponding key and install it.
Method 3 of 3: Address Ignition Cylinder Problems
Step 1. Use compressed air to clean the ignition port
If you detect debris trapped inside, it can cause the wrench to fail to properly engage the pins to turn them. You can get compressed air from your local office supply store or retailer and insert the straw from the nozzle directly into the keyhole. Spray the compressed air into the keyhole in short streams. It only takes a few jets to remove any residue.
- Avoid spraying the entire can into the keyhole, as extreme cold could damage the ignition cylinder.
- Wear eye protection when applying compressed air to clean the keyhole to make sure you keep debris from getting into your eyes.
Step 2. Use a small dose of Electrical Component Cleaner on the keyhole
If the ignition cylinder sticks, spraying a small amount of Electrical Component Cleaner into the keyhole can lubricate it enough to turn it. Be careful not to spray too much air into the keyhole. A few short jets should be sufficient. Once this is done, you need to insert the key and twist it back and forth gently to apply the lubricant.
If this works, you will likely need to replace the ignition cylinder as it progressively worsens
Step 3. Replace the ignition cylinder
If all else fails, you will have to replace this item. Have your vehicle towed to a nearby repair center that specializes in your make and model. Explain the problem and analyze your options.
- Similar to cutting a new key, you must show sufficient proof that you are the owner of the vehicle so that you can install a new ignition cylinder.
- A new ignition cylinder will likely require key replacement, even if that was not the cause of the problem.