Key does not turn in ignition
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Key does not turn in ignition
How to get your ignition repaired
The easiest way to get your boot/tailgate lock replaced is to book it in with one of the fantastic mechanics on AutoGuru. We take all the hard work out of it and make the whole process as easy as possible.
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What causes a key to stop turning in the ignition
There can a few reasons why the key might not turn in the ignition the most common reasons are:-
Steering wheel - Most vehicles have a steering lock which locks the steering wheel when the key is removed, sometimes it can malfunction causing the key to not be able to be turned.It can also get stuck in a certain position and sometimes if you jiggle the steering wheel and turn the key at the same time it will enable the key to turn.
Gear selector - Most vehicles with automatic transmissions won't let the key turn if the vehicle is not in park or neutral, again sometimes these can stick and a quick wiggle can loosen it and get the key turning again.
Ignition barrel - An internal issue in the ignition barrel could also be factor
Key - If the key is damaged or worn it wont turn inside the barrel
How to tell if you need your ignition repaired
If it is a key or an ignition barrel issue you might find that the key will start to have trouble turning intermittently and slowly get worse, in the case of a steering lock or gear selector it could happen immediately.
Is it important to get the ignition repaired?
If you don't get your ignition repaired when you notice the key starting to have trouble turning it could stop working completely and you could be up for a costly tow.
How is the ignition repaired?
Depending on what is the cause of the issue the repair could be as simple as replacing the key, from there it could be repair/replacement of the ignition barrel or a more complex repair with the steering lock or the gear selector
Tips to remember
A few things that could save you some money
- Early diagnosis could save you money in the long term
- If you have a spare key try using that instead
- Try wiggling the key while you turn it
