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After a long day at work, you eagerly prepare to return home, only to discover your car key is stuck in the ignition. You decide to apply force including twisting and pulling, but it fails to come out.

This is when frustration sets in! 

Before considering locksmith help or trying to yank it with brute force, you need to learn the root cause of this lockout issue and the safe methods to resolve it.

The Steering Wheel is Locked

The wheel lock might be activated because you turned off your car and moved the steering wheel slightly. The pressure makes it difficult to remove the key from the ignition. 

The good news? This is an easy fix.

You should slowly wiggle the key while attempting to turn the steering wheel from side to side. After the pressure reduces, you should be able to remove it.

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However, avoid putting excessive force on your key as this could lead to key breakage inside the ignition.

Your Car Isn't Fully in "Park"

For automatic vehicles, your key will not come out unless you have properly set the gear shift to "Park." Despite appearing in the correct position, the gear might not engage properly.

To resolve this issue, shift back to "Drive" mode before re-engaging the "Park" position firmly. When set correctly, you'll hear a clicking sound. After that, test if the key moves out smoothly.

Your Key Is Damaged or Worn Out

Car keys struggle from continuous usage as people toss them in pockets or bags and use them to open parcels instead of finding the right tool. This leads to regular wear and tear on the key. 

Check your key carefully. If there's any sign of obvious damage or it is bent, that indicates a problem. Use a spare key if you have one available. If it works, then you need to obtain a new key. 

You can visit a locksmith shop for a perfectly cut replacement key.

Dirt or Debris in the Ignition Cylinder 

How often do you put your key in the ignition? Over time, dirt, alongside small debris can build up inside and block the free movement of the key. If your key has been experiencing frequent sticking problems before this, a thorough cleaning of the ignition cylinder is needed. 

To fix this, clear out any dust through a can of compressed air. In case this doesn’t work, apply a small amount of dry graphite lubricant. Avoid using oil-based lubricants like WD-40 because they attract additional dust which makes matters worse. For further assistance, get a locksmith to help.

Your Ignition Cylinder is Failing 

Assuming nothing works, a worn-out ignition cylinder might be the problem. The ignition cylinder operates each time you start your vehicle. This exposes the components to wear and tear or deterioration over time.

Pulling the key out at this point might cause additional damage. However, getting professional help from Royal Locksmith proves a better solution. 

After proper key removal, our certified auto locksmith will determine if the ignition cylinder needs replacement or repair.

Let us help Remove your Stuck Car Key

You should never ignore ignition or car key problems once they arise. Nevertheless, addressing them earlier is a better option. Call a locksmith service whenever you notice any of those signs, or you find yourself stranded and unable to get out.

Feel free to call Royal Locksmith for key extraction or to help you with other lock-related needs.

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