What To Do When Your Key Is Stuck in the Ignition

Dealing with a stuck key is typically an easy problem to solve that can take between a few seconds to a couple of hours to sort out, depending on whether or not you need to actually replace the ignition module. That job is moderately difficult, though we'll cover that too.

To get a sticky key out of the ignition, you might just need some careful dexterity, or possibly some lock lubricant like this, this, or this.

To complete an ignition module replacement, you’ll need a screwdriver set with various flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers, pliers, a replacement key, and a replacement ignition switch for your car specifically.

If your car's older, you might be able to get away with a universal ignition switch. You’ll also want to refer to a maintenance manual regularly for your exact car. We'll provide the overview and universal tips, however, it'll be worth doing some research on how the process works for your car specifically before committing to diving in.

If you shut your car off before putting it in park, you probably won't be able to get the key out. This is a common user error—make sure your shifter is in "P" before you get too nervous. If it's still in drive, just put it in park and try the key again. If that works for you, great!

If not, don't panic. This is still a very solvable problem.

Maybe you've got an old worn key, or maybe some pocket lint got caught on it. Try a gentle giggle. Just be careful not to force anything, keys can bend or break more easily than you might expect.

It'll be worth also moving the steering wheel a little bit; it's possible that you activated the steering lock and your key got caught.

There might be some kind of unusual or aftermarket locking system in the ignition. Look around for a button near where the key goes in, especially if you're in a new-to-you car.

You can find lock lubricant online (like this, this, or this linked earlier) but it's also readily available at hardware stores and auto parts stores.

Ideally, you'd squirt it in with the key out of the cylinder, but since that's not possible, you'll just have to aim a little more carefully to get it in. It should still be doable, though.

Word to the wise: Pick one lock lube and stick with it. If you try a dry one and then a wet one, they might adversely interact with each other and create an even stickier situation than what you started with.

If you've tried the above and still aren't having luck, Google around for mechanics that work exclusively on your car's make. You might get lucky and find somebody who knows that "one weird trick" that works on a stuck key for these cars, and that's a straightforward enough question that you might actually be able to get advice over the phone.

Don't bother with dealerships, though. Most of them probably haven't seen a physical key in years.

If that key is really good and stuck, you may indeed have to replace the ignition module. So now you get to decide if you want to do that yourself or outsource it. Call a locksmith or a shop or get ready to DIY. If the key isn't even turning, you might want to cough up the cash for a pro to deal with it.

If the key won't come out but it will still turn, an ignition module replacement is not necessarily all that hard. Read on if you're giving it a shot.

Disconnect the negative terminal on your vehicle’s battery. Now you can remove the trim from around the steering wheel. There will be more than one piece to remove, but the specific number will depend on the make and model of your vehicle. Move carefully; these plastics can get brittle after years of sitting in the sun. Triple-check you've removed any and all screws before yanking on anything too hard.

Insert the key and turn the switch to accessory mode but don't start the car.

Press the release pin on the bottom of the ignition switch with a screwdriver. This will require a narrow screwdriver to fit into the small hole. The ignition module should slide right out once the pin has been released.

Squeeze the release pin on the new module and slide it into the ignition hole on the side of the steering column. You should hear a click when the pin has properly seated itself. Keep working the switch until you hear the sound.

Before reassembling the interior trim, you’ll need to test the new switch. To do this, reconnect the battery and make sure you’ve installed the new ignition switch properly. The vehicle should crank right up, and you should be able to insert and remove the key freely. If that’s not the case, you’ll need to review the steps you took to install the switch.

If the vehicle cranks properly, you’re almost done. Turn the ignition back to the off position and disconnect the battery again. 

Reinstall the pieces of your vehicle’s interior, being sure to replace them in the order that they were removed.

Now just reconnect the battery, and your work is done.

If you’re not hearing any noise from the starter motor when you turn the key, the issue might be under the hood and not in the ignition switch. So make sure the key isn’t the problem before you start disassembling your car’s steering column.

One of the most likely culprits for a stuck ignition key is the steering wheel locking mechanism. When a vehicle is parked, the steering wheel can lock. That’s great for theft prevention, but it also prevents the key from turning or being removed from the ignition switch. In some cases, the ignition or vehicle isn’t the problem. It can be a worn or damaged key that has lodged itself in the ignition switch. Pulling or yanking on the key can cause major damage to the ignition and might make it even harder to remove the key.

If you’d like a video to follow while working on your ignition switch, check out the one below by The Original Mechanic.