Q: Battery dead and key stuck

asked by on February 16, 2016

My car battery is dead and my key is stuck in the ignition.

The key in your vehicle will not turn due to the dead battery. This is because you have an electronic ignition lock that no longer has the required voltage to allow the key to turn. You can jump start the vehicle, and with the cables still hooked up, turn off the engine and remove the key. However, I would recommend allowing a certified technician assess the problem you are experiencing with your stuck ignition.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Placing a brake fluid on Corolla Hatchback
Modern cars have ABS systems and they are often cross-linked and a lot of times to really bleed the brake fluids. You'll need a dealer-level scan tool that operates the ABS system that will tell you what to do. It...
I had a p0405 get code replaced egr valve, map sensor,mad sensor, and PCv valve just to be safe but still getting the code why?
The code P0405 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0405-obd-ii-trouble-code-exhaust-gas-recirculation-sensor-circuit-a-low-by-jay-safford) and a rough idle is most likely due to carbon getting into the EGR pintle. This will hold the EGR open. When you are getting the rough idle you should shut off engine and remove EGR...
Just put new alternater on but battery not charging
The alternator in your car charges your battery with the assistance from the voltage regulator which is something that regulates the amount of voltage being sent to the battery via the charging from the alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement). It's function is to...
Knock sensor 1
Hello there. The knock sensor code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/is-it-safe-to-drive-with-a-faulty-knock-sensor) can have various causes on your 2004 Chevrolet Silverado. The knock sensor circuit low, bank 1 code is telling us that the knock sensor in bank 1 that it has low circuit voltage....
Car shuts off when trying to start.
Your key is a transponder key. The transponder in the key works together with the theft deterrent module that is attached to the ignition lock cylinder. The only good way to test this system is with a shop level scanner...
One of the wheels that holds the serpentine belt has completely snapped off, I believe it is the power steering one. repair cost?
Hi there. A picture is worth a thousand words. Assuming it is the power steering pulley that has broken (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/power-steering-pump-pulley-replacement) would lead me to question why this happened. It could be the power steering pump has seized (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/power-steering-pump-replacement) resulting in...
The shift stick button is stuck can't get it out of park? 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
Hi there - this problem sounds like the shifter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/3-essential-things-to-know-about-your-car-s-gear-shifter) interlock mechanism is malfunctioning. There can be, however a number of pieces to this simple-sounding mechanism. The electrical relay that physically releases the interlock may not be working (fuse, or...
how do wagner brake rotors and pads compae to stock GM
Hi Jerry. Thanks for writing in today. I am a fan of this brand of brake system components. However, in regards to being "better" than OEM, that's a very difficult question to provide a straight and clear answer. Generally speaking,...

Related articles

How to Check the Voltage of a Car Battery
There are few things more frustrating than discovering that your car won’t start because the battery is dead. A mechanic can measure...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche
Few Few vehicles are as distinctive as the Chevrolet Avalanche. Part SUV, part truck, the Avalanche is actually surprisingly practical. On the inside, it feels more like a Chevy Tahoe, except when you look out your rearview mirror, you’ll notice...
How to Use Jumper Cables
It's It's disheartening when you settle into the driver's seat ready to go to work or visit friends, turn the key in your ignition, and nothing happens. It is usually a sign that your battery is dead and just needs...