Car ignitions and car keys become worn with use overtime, like anything else. We often get into our vehicles and don’t think about what type of care both the key and ignitions need until one or both stop working and often, by then we’re in a situation where the ignition is stuck in the ‘on’ or ‘off’ position.
Earlier this year we put out an article on Car Key Ignitions and what signs to look for, if your ignition or car key start to become difficult to use. The article has some useful tips and ways you can maintain your ignition before it’s too late. Click here to read this article.
About 90% of our customers call us when the car key will no longer turn in the ignition, when the key finally snaps with excessive force or when the car key is stuck in the ignition and lets face it, there is no good time for this! If this happens to you, here are some tips you can try:
3. Turn the Steering Wheel: Sometimes, the steering wheel lock can cause the car key to not be able to turn, in the ignition. Try turning the steering wheel while attempting to turn the car key. This movement might release the pressure on the car key and allow it to turn.
4. Use Lubrication: If the key is stuck, you can try lubricating the ignition key hole with a small amount of CRC or WD40. This might help the wafers inside the ignition to move, allowing you to make a turn. *Note: this would not mean that the ignition is fixed, it is highly recommended that you have your ignition seen to as soon as possible, by a locksmith.
5. Wiggle the Car Key: Gently wiggle the car key back and forth while applying slight pressure to see if it will turn to either the ‘on’ or ‘off’ position, depending on how the ignition is jammed or stuck.
6. Seek Professional Help: If you’re unable to remove the car key on your own or turn the car key ignition to the ‘on’ or ‘off’ position, it is best to contact a mobile, automotive locksmith, who can assist you further without causing any damage to the ignition. Being a mobile locksmith service, we come out to our customers with a fully equipped service vehicle, to carry out the necessary work and get you back on the road again.
Most car ignitions can be serviced and worn car keys can be replaced, however some makes and models of vehicles such as the Ford Falcon BA and BF models and the Ford Territory SX and SY models require an ignition rebuild. The Holden Commodore VR, VS, VT, VU, VX, VY and VZ models require ignition replacements, once they stop working.
These types of services will cost upwards of $330 usually, so to avoid this situation show your ignition some care, with some lubrication and check your car key blades to see if they need replacement, due to being worn.
We’re here to help! If you find yourself in this situation, give us a call!
Article Credit: Altitude Locksmiths Images: Altitude Locksmiths and Canva
