Breaking down on the side of the road can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. One of the most common issues that may arise is the inability to remove your key from the ignition. This can be caused by various things, ranging from minor issues to significant problems.
In this situation, it is essential to remain calm and take the proper steps to get your key out as quickly and safely as possible. Thankfully, there are several strategies you can use to get your key out of the ignition and get going again.
With the proper knowledge and some patience, you can be back on the road in no time.
Understanding Why You Can’t Get Your Key Out Of The Ignition
When you cannot get your key out of the ignition, it is essential to understand why. There are several reasons why this may happen, each with its ideal solution. For example, a broken key may need to be replaced, while a broken ignition switch must be repaired.
Understanding why you can’t get your key out of the ignition will help you know how to respond and resolve the issue. A broken key is the most common reason you can’t get your key out of the ignition. Keys are often broken when they are old or left in the ignition for too long.
If your key is broken, you will need to get a replacement. You can visit your local car parts store to do this. If your key is stuck, it may have become trapped between the ignition and steering column.
This is often caused by an old or worn ignition switch. You should visit a mechanic to have the ignition switch inspected and replaced if it is broken.
Checking the Car Manual
Suppose you cannot get your key out of the ignition and are trying to figure out why you should check your car manual first. Manuals often contain information on common issues experienced by owners, as well as their causes and solutions.
If you have a specific issue while getting your key out of the ignition, the manual may provide information to help you resolve it. If you’ve checked your manual and are still unsure of the cause of your problem, you should visit a mechanic.
They will be able to inspect your car and help you identify and resolve the issue.
Trying the Shift Lock Override
The shift lock override may work if you can turn the key and start the car but cannot get your key out of the ignition. The shift lock override is a feature in many modern cars that prevents the driver from shifting the car into neutral when the car is in park.
This is a helpful feature for many reasons, but it can be troublesome for those stuck with their key in the ignition. If you find yourself in this situation, you can try to shift the car into neutral. This will allow you to remove the key.
To shift the car into neutral, you need to hold down the brake pedal with one foot, turn the car on with the other foot, and then push the gas pedal down with both feet. When the car is in neutral, you can let go of the gas pedal and the brake pedal. Now you can remove the key from the ignition.
Inspecting the Ignition Switch
One of the first things you should do when you can’t get your key out of the ignition is to inspect the ignition switch. The ignition switch is the device that moves and turns on your car’s engine. If the ignition switch is broken or malfunctioning, you will not be able to turn off or remove your key from the ignition.
The ignition switch may be broken if you have had the car for a long time or have been in an accident. That’s why it’s essential to see a mechanic as soon as possible.
The mechanic can visually inspect the ignition switch and let you know if it needs to be repaired or replaced. If the ignition switch is broken, you must get it repaired or replaced before removing your key.
Trying A Lubricant
If you cannot get your key out of the ignition and the ignition switch is functioning correctly, try applying a lubricant. A lubricant will help the key turn more efficiently, allowing you to remove it.
The lubricants that work best for this are graphite- and lithium-based. Use a fine-tipped brush to apply the lubricant to the ignition. Allow the lubricant to dry for at least 30 minutes before removing the key.
Before applying a lubricant to the ignition, check your car manual. Some cars require special lubricants that a mechanic should use. If your car requires a special lubricant, you should have the mechanic apply it.
Seeking Professional Help from a 24-Hour Locksmith
If none of these strategies work, you will want to seek professional help. This can be done by hiring a 24/7 locksmith. A locksmith can inspect your ignition switch and determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
They will also be able to replace broken keys and perform other helpful tasks. Hiring a locksmith is a great idea because they will be able to respond to your situation as soon as possible.
Preventing Future Issues
If you can get your key out of the ignition and resolve the issue, you will want to prevent the same thing from happening again. To do this, be proactive about car maintenance.
You should have your car serviced regularly and replace worn or broken parts before they break. This will help prevent issues from occurring in the first place. Regular car maintenance can prevent many different issues from occurring. It can also help you save money in the long run by preventing expensive repairs.
Conclusion
The ignition system of a car is an intricate and complicated mechanism. Many different things can go wrong with the ignition, and one of the most common issues is the inability to remove the key. There are several things you can do when this happens.
You can try the shift lock override, inspect the ignition switch, or try a lubricant. If these don’t work, you’ll need a professional locksmith to help you get the key out. Prevent future issues with regular cleaning and maintenance of the ignition system.
Call 24/7 Locksmith Co. To Get Key Out Of Ignition
The first step is to call 24/7 Locksmith Co. at (541) 640-1849 to ask for service. The staff member who answers your call should be able to give you a price quote over the phone for the service needed.
If you’re interested in getting this done right away, we can also schedule an appointment for you so that we can come out and get it done as soon as possible.
You can call (541) 640-1849, or you can send an email to Office@247locksmithco.com.
In the email, make sure you include the following:
- Your name
- Phone number
- The address where you are
- The type of assistance you need
- The timeframe when you want the technicians to come
If you want to know more about the company’s services, you can navigate our website at https://247locksmithco.com/ or call us at (541) 640-1849.
