Key stuck in the ignition is not a big problem if you do not try to apply brute force and remove it. Yes, a car locksmith can easily deal with a stuck key in the ignition. But the problem will take more time to resolve if the key breaks while you try to remove it. 

Of course, you simply cannot leave the key in the ignition with doors wide open to deal with the problem. As a result, most people try to pull the key as hard as possible. And in the process, the key breaks, and half of the piece remains inside. A broken key can only be removed via inserting a pair of needle-nose pliers, which takes time. 

Scroll down to find out the top reasons for car keys getting stuck in the ignition. But first, let’s learn how to deal with the keys stuck in the ignition: 

6 Quick Ways to Deal with Car Key Stuck in the Ignition

1. Call a Car Locksmith

The quickest way to deal with any car problem is to call a mechanic. So, when it comes to dealing with car locks problems, a car locksmith is the way to go. 

You can quickly connect with a car locksmith by searching for the nearest experts. All you have to do is open Google and search for a car locksmith along with the location. For instance, if you are looking for a car locksmith in Melbourne — search for a car locksmith in Melbourne.

• Check the license

The first thing you should do before hiring a car locksmith is to review the license. Do the car locksmith services have a valid license from a recognized agency? 

Understand that a license validates whether the car locksmith will be able to do the job efficiently or not.

• Check the reviews

Another way to ensure that the locksmith is reliable or not is to check the references and reviews given by previous customers. 

Customers are usually honest. So, they will indicate everything about the car locksmith services — do they charge more, are the car locksmith services efficient, do they provide a warranty, and more such questions can easily be answered via customer reviews. 

• Compare the rates

Usually, most services indicate their rates on their service page. So, quickly search for rates and find out the rates of all the services to see which one is more affordable. 

• Review if there is a warranty

Ensure to ask if the car locksmith services provide a warranty for the services. 

2. Shake the Gear Selector

Sometimes the selector is not positioned in neutral or park. And this prevents the key from being removed from the ignition. Positioning the gear selector in the correct position, you can remove the stuck car key easily. 

3. Jiggle the Stuck Key

While pushing the key cylinder with one hand, jiggle the key with the other hand. This sometimes helps in loosening the key. Of course, do not try to apply force and pull it hard. Ensure to have a firm hand while jiggling the key. 

4. Unlock the Steering Wheel

New cars have an automated lock system that locks the steering wheel as soon as you remove the key. So, sometimes the wheel locks even before the key is removed. You can simply unlock the steering wheel and remove the key easily. 

All you have to do is move the steering wheel in the opposite direction to unlock the wheel and remove the stuck key. 

5. Lubricate the Ignition Lock Cylinder

Sometimes the locking mechanism in the car slides over the key. This causes the key to get stuck. Lubricating it with oil can help you remove the stuck key quickly and easily. 

6. Ensure the Battery is Fine

Of course, you might wonder about the connection between the battery and key ignition system. Well, it turns out the car ignition system needs the battery power function. And when there is not enough battery power to deliver the required electric power, the key might get stuck in the ignition.

Why the Car Key Gets Stuck in Ignition?

Of course, figuring out the reasons for the key getting stuck is easy, given the above methods on how to deal with a stuck key and explaining the causes of a stuck key. 

Still, here are the top reasons for the key getting stuck in the ignition: 

Inadequate Gear Selection

As mentioned, sometimes the gear selector is not placed on neutral or park. This stocks the key in the ignition when you try to remove it. 

Debris in the Keys

Worn-out keys are another top reason for the key getting stuck in the ignition. Calling a car locksmith is the solution. 

Steering Wheel Tightening

A locked steering wheel prevents the key from being removed from the ignition. 

Dead Battery

As explained beforehand — a dead battery does not have enough electric power to deliver to the ignition system. And this causes the key to be stuck in the ignition. 

Conclusion,

Car key problems are not common. But they do happen. So, do not panic. And if you want to deal with any car lock problems like a car key stuck in the ignition or the key not working, — a car locksmith can help you quickly. 

Of course, you can try the solutions mentioned in the guide. But if you do not know what you are doing, it is better to let the experts deal with the situation.