i moved my car into my garage so i could start detailing it and when i tried to remove the key from the ignition, i wouldn't turn past accessory. i know you have to push down and turn so don't make any smart comments. haha. i finally got the key out by jiggling it while pushing and turning. i tried it with my spare key and it got stuck as well. i got a technique down on how to remove the key. i have to push down and then while i'm turning the key i pull and push on the key slightly and that usually works. i don't want to always have to do this when i take my key out of the ignition cause it gets really annoying. does anyone know what the problem is and/or how to fix it?

 

Interesting. I've heard of this problem in automatic cars but truly never in a standard vehicle. You're saying it is definitely not an issue with the steering wheel locking the key in?

Is there any physical damage to either keys? Has anything other than the correct keys been inserted into the ignition?


I'm Googling the topic right now because this interests me. I'll let you know if I find anything of merit.

 

same problem here. happened 2 times and took me about 5 mins just to take out my key. just turn it back and forth and it will finally come out

 

i dont believe the steering wheel had anything to do with locking the key in. that was the first thing that came to my mind was to wiggle the steering wheel in case it locked or something. the keys are not damaged and i don't believe any other keys were inserted into the ignition. i just took my car around the block and parked it in my driveway and the key came out without a problem. i did a quick search on yahoo and i couldn't find anything useful.

 

yeah it's kinda weird how it only happens on occasion. could there be something wrong with the cylinder?

 

Not entirely sure how the ignition locking mechanism works... but if it is similar to a pin tumbler lock, which I assume it is, the problem could also be a pin getting stuck or essentially jammed in such a way that it prevents the key from coming out...

I'm still trying to find more information on google, slowly. There was a website that suggest wd40 when a key gets stuck in a lock in such a manner, but this was for a lock that was less expensive and not electronic... so maybe an idea but likely not such a good one...

 

Same problem here, only randomly. I assumed it was just a worn key or cylinder, kind of embarrassing but it's not something that i'm too stressed about.

 

Happens from time to time. Sounds like the tumblers wearing or some dirt/pocket fuzz in the key cylinder. Try a squirt of WD-40 or similar lube on the key and work it in and out. You'll probably see some fine metal particles on the key when you remove it.

The electronic portion is seperated and attatched to the back half of the switch.

 

+1

 

mine has been doing this lately too, but what i always find that helps is if i turn the steering wheel from side to side a little bit. that always gets it out

 

That's the steering wheel key lock. I believe they are talking about something different. However, does anybody know what this is called exactly? When the steering wheel is pushed all the way to one side and it locks the key in place...

 

mine gets stuck a little but not that bad

 

yeah i noticed when i turn the key from the on position to the off position in one quick motion the key doesnt get stuck. it's only when i try to turn it from accessory to off. maybe cause there's less momentum or something.

 

Mine's done that since I got it, kinda got used to it, I took it to the dealer for the stinky AC and they noticed it, said they ordered a new ignition set, but I'm not holding my breath.

 

+1 same thing here. its a little annoying but not really a problem. the only time it really frustrated me was when I had stitches in my right hand, took me 15min to get then out with my left, lol.