Q: The smart key can turn the ignition but can't start the car

asked by on October 06, 2016

I have replaced a new battery thinking it was due to dead battery cuz the key was stuck inside the ignition, which couldn't turn it and all lights out on the dashboard. After the new battery was replaced, the smart key could turn the ignition, and lights on the dashboard but car still couldn't start. Also when I lifted my fingers from the key, the key would continue to turn the ignition with the engine cranking but again the car just wouldn't start.

My car has 75000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Car is not starting Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. It appears that the issues you’re experiencing may be caused by the ignition lock cylinder. In some newer vehicles (made after 2000) this part has multiple springs inside the cylinder that allows you to press the key forward and allow it to automatically spring back once the vehicle starts. If this is not happening, then I suggest having a professional mechanic diagnose the starting problem so that the ignition and starting issue can be addressed properly.

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

What does the odometer do?
Your car’s odometer does one thing – it shows you the mileage on the engine. This number cannot be changed. In fact, it’s against the law to tamper with your odometer. There are two trip odometers available that can be...
Clicking sound from tire
Hi! The sound you are describing is a common giveaway of a faulty CV axle. I suspect that the joint inside of the axle is binding up and is causing the noise. The joints on your particular vehicle may fail...
The Check Battery Light will come on and the car will lose power. Sometimes the power steering will stop working as well.
Hi there, thanks for writing in. In several instances, when the Check Battery Light comes on before the engine died, then it's probably the alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement). If your engine died before the Battery Light illuminated, then you may have had...
Car stalled, now can't engage any gear - 2015 Honda Civic Si
Hello - it is possible that your transmission has a broken shaft internally. Honda issued a Recall (#15V574000) which addresses this issue. A software problem causes damage to the drive pulley, which results in a "no gears selectable" situation as...
Secondary air pump.
The air pump supplies the catalytic converter with extra oxygen so that it can efficiently catalyze any unburned fuel. On start up, the catalytic converter is cold and requires some help to quickly get up to temperature allowing it to...
Battery light was on and now car won't start and keys stuck in ignition
Hi there. It more than likely that you are experiencing an issue with the alternator or the main relay as opposed to the battery itself. Once your car starts, power to all components and accessories is provided by the alternator;...
I've got a ford focus 1.6 engine. Whenever the engine gets a little warm and as the clutch is pressed down to change gears, the rpm's increase.
Hi there. There could be a few different issues that could be contributing to your current condition. There could be a vacuum leak causing the engine to rev up when there is no load applied to the engine. The Idle...
Nissan exterra security light flashing car won't start
This suggests you have a malfunction in your security system that is disabling the ability of the vehicle to start. When the security system is functioning properly, the goal is for it to disable the car's ability to start when...

Related articles

How a Keyless Push-Button Ignition Works
Technology Technology has advanced for automotive security and user-focused features, and a shift is occurring where traditional key-and-cylinder starting systems are being replaced by keyless push-button ignition systems. They are incredibly simple to operate and provide excellent security. The system...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid
The The 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid is Mercedes' first hybrid SUV. It can perform light off-roading tasks while still being able to tow a good amount of weight. It has excellent fuel economy and drives just like the Mercedes-Benz M-Class...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Ignition Ignitor
Common signs include engine misfires, the Check Engine Light coming on, car not starting, and a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.