Removing a stuck car key can be an unpleasant experience. The following tips will help you prevent a stuck key and get your car back on the road in no time.
If you have another key or a screwdriver, use it to reach in and turn the ignition. The idea is that this will give you enough room to get the jammed key out. However, if you don’t have any tools available, skip this step.
Check Your Steering Wheel Lock
Make sure that you check your steering wheel lock in case the key gets stuck because of it. Some vehicles have a locking system in their steering wheel, and if you don’t unlock it, your key won’t come out. To unlock it, you must press a button on the key fob or the door panel.
If you have a spare key, try using it to retract the stuck key first. If the stuck key does not retract, you can take steps to make this process easier.
First, use WD-40 or another lubricant that will help release the bolt from inside the ignition. Spray this lubricant onto the shaft of your stuck key and then turn it in an attempt to remove it. If this does not work, spray more lubricant onto the shaft and try again until it does.
The first thing you need to do is remove the ignition switch. This will prevent further damage to your car by stopping power from flowing through the ignition system.
To do this, you’ll need either a screwdriver or a flathead screwdriver. You’ll also need an owner’s manual to know where the screws are located and what they look like.
To remove the ignition switch, unscrew each screw until they are all removed. Then pull out the ignition switch with your hand and set it aside on a clean surface.
Another option for removing a stuck key when all else fails is using wax candles! Wax candles can be heated up and used as makeshift tools to remove keys that are stuck in place. Take off all plastic parts on your vehicle before heating wax candles on their surface, as they could melt off otherwise and cause damage. Make sure there is no moisture present.
Implementing patience is key to successfully getting a stuck car key out of the ignition. The main thing to remember is that you need to stay calm and not panic. You will also want to avoid over-wrenching or force when removing the key, no matter how much you want it out. Having a stuck car key fall into place can seem like a long process, but it shouldn’t take too long if you know what you’re doing.