What If The Key WON’T Go in The Ignition

Are you unable to insert the car key into the ignition port? Well, several issues can resist the car key to go inside the ignition port. You can find and solve the issue for the key won’t go into ignition issue.

All you need is the correct solution. The ignition cylinder, debris in the port, and many other things can be the reason for the port locking.

Here you can find the fastest and most efficient solutions that you can use to solve this issue. Let’s check out some effective ideas to get the key inside the port.

Key Won’t Go Into Ignition Until You Do This

The situation when you are not able to put the key inside the port could be quite panicking. But, not when you know what exactly you have to do. So, get to know the nifty solutions to put the key in ignition in no time.

1. Check for Common Issues

There can be multiple possibilities as to why the key won’t go into ignition. Start with the automatic transmission. The shift lever indicator must spot the P sign. 

If it’s possible try to relocate the liver to the parking sign and then try to insert the key again. Next, check the key for any sort of damage like a crack or something. 

In case you find any damage, the only solution to start the car is to replace the damaged key. Make sure that the key is clean and there is no debris on it.

Don’t forget to verify that the steering wheel isn’t locked. If the wheel stops suddenly when you move it from side to side, it’s locked. 

You can unlock the steering by twisting the wheel while turning the key. It will turn the key and wheel on simultaneously.

          SEE MORE:

• This is how you can replace a car key
• What happens when you take out the car key while driving?

2. Slide the Key in and out

As dirt is the major reason for the chances are that a few fragments might have stuck to the pins of the ignition cylinder. 

Insert the key into the port as much as you can and softly slide it back out. Go through the entire process numerous times until the key gets into the port completely. 

But, don’t force or push it hard as it can result in other damages. After the success of this process, make sure that you clean the port completely.

3. Electric Cleaner and Canned Air to Clean the Port

After you test out all the possible common issues and the key is still not able to go in the ignition, it’s time to check the ignition port. You can clean the port in ways- electric can and canned air.

A small dose of the electric can is enough to clean the port. The electric cleaner would lubricate the twisted cylinder (cause of not letting the key enter the port). 

So, spray the electric cleaner inside the port with a straw. If it works, you need to change the cylinder as its condition could be worse after spraying.

You can even try the other method which is canned air cleaning. It will clear the dirt and dust from the port. 

But, before you do it, wear eye protection glasses so that the dirt doesn’t get into your eyes. The excess spray could damage the ignition cylinder so be careful with its quantity.

4. Flatting the bent key

If your key won’t go all the way into the ignition because the component is bent, use a rubber or wooden mallet to straighten it up. To do this, set the key on a level surface and slowly pound it from the top with the mallet until it becomes straight.

Please avoid hitting the key with a metal item as this may cause further damage. Also, avoid using pliers to straighten the key. You might as well bend it past its breaking point.

FAQs On Key In Ignition

1. Is it OK to spray WD-40 in ignition?

Yes, you can put WD-40 in your car’s ignition if the key won’t go into ignition. However, there are superior alternatives to WD-40 on the market. However, if that is all you have, please make use of it.

Meanwhile, make careful not to use too much of the product. Also, acquire a piece of cloth to wipe any run-off when you apply it to the ignition of your automobile.

2. How do you lubricate car key locks?

If your vehicle key won’t go into ignition, purchasing a recommended car key locks cleaning will assist you in lubricating the ignition. To apply the cleaner, use an air compressor to clear away the dust from the keyhole.

Following that, use a spray cleaning such as WD-40 or another approved cleaner. Before spraying, make sure the nozzle is near the lock cylinder. 

To clean the locks, you might use a dry lock lubricant, such as 3-in-1 lock dry lubrication. Then, insert the key into the locks and turn it to test them.

3. Does a new ignition switch require a new key?

Yes, a new ignition switch necessitates the purchase of a new key. In reality, the ignition switch comes with a new set of keys that must be configured with your vehicle. 

However, if you do not change anything, you will need to keep your old key to access the automobile doors.

So, if you have a malfunctioning ignition switch, please contact a competent auto technician to work on the ignition switch replacement so that it is completed precisely and without any additional problems.

5. Is it possible for a dead battery to disable your ignition?

A dead battery in your key fob prevents it from broadcasting the signal that the ignition system requires. 

If your car or truck doesn’t detect the right signal, the ignition will stay locked, and you won’t be able to start your vehicle while carrying the fob in your pocket.

      6. What is the best lubricant for car ignition?

Some of the most effective automotive ignition lubricants include powdered graphite and silicone spray. 

Don’t worry if your automobile key won’t go in ignition as normal. Please purchase a bottle of graphite lube and apply it to the cylinder instead.

After that, try inserting the key again and starting the engine. You are now ready to go. If the problem persists, you may need to contact an expert vehicle mechanic right once to diagnose and repair it.

Check out this video from Despair Repair to learn more about how to repair when you cant get key out of ignition!

In the Nutshell

You might face this problem several times. Even if you have tried all the above solutions, it is necessary to take your car to the experts. 

They can diagnose the real issue and you can ask for any maintenance tips for the worst-case scenario. So, this is how you can deal with the situation when the key won’t go into ignition.