Q: Wheel is free but the key won't turn
My key won't turn in park and my steering wheel is free.
My car has 11900 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
You should try a different key if you have a spare one to try. If the spare key turns the ignition now then the original key is worn and needs replaced.If you do not have an extra key then look at the key you are using to see if the key looks excessively worn? If it is worn then you will need a locksmith to cut a new key and program it for you and see if ignition now turns. If it still does not turn then you will need the key lock cylinder replaced.
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
What others are asking
How do I eject a CD?
If you want to remove a CD from your vehicle’s CD player, simply press the eject button, which sits next to the CD slot. The CD will be partially ejected from the slot, and you can remove it all the...
Vehicle not starting.
It sounds like your Tacoma may have a low battery, a failing battery cable (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-replacement), or a bad starter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/starter-replacement). If the engine will only crank partially over then there is either not enough power getting to the starter or...
Wheel bearing going out
Hi there. A faulty wheel bearing will generally cause a growling noise similar to a chopping or cupping wear on the inner or outer edge of one or more tires. To determine this, the tire on the suspected wheel of...
Thermostat replacement on a 2002 Ford Escort
Yes, if you don't have any problems. If the thermostat has a problem, it will shut. If it shuts, then your temperature gauge will get behind and you'll have to change it; or it will stick right open and your...
Can I continue to drive my car until I get the ignition coil fixed?
Hello Since the ignition coil (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-ignition-coil) is the component responsible for generating the engine spark, any problems with it can quickly lead to engine performance issues. Because of this fact, it's not really a good idea to drive the vehicle...
Throttle Body and fuel injector cleaning normal to do at my miles? Dealership saying I should do it.
It may be a good idea to have the throttle body and injectors cleaned at regular times but you do not have to have it done now unless you are having a problem with how the engine is running. If...
Magnet stuck on spark plug.
I do not have a vehicle listed so I am not sure how to guide you. but depending on the location of the spark plug hole, he may be able to use needle nose pliers to go into the hole...
Was driving then car would not move found 2 silver balls under car bearings i quess put it in gear and car will not move
If the balls are roughly 3/8th inch in diameter, they come from the CV joint at the end of the axle. The CV joint may be broken which would explain why the car won't move. Replacing the axle is a...
So I just bought a 2009 Audi A4 Quattro, and all we did was change the oil, and the car started shaking. What could be the problem
Rough operation and loss of power on acceleration can be due to plugged fuel injectors, faulty oxygen sensors, fuel pump and/or filter, vacuum leaks, ignition system malfunctions, bad valve timing if the timing belt or chain is worn or skipped,...
Related articles
How to Diagnose an Ignition Key That Won’t Turn
If your car key won't turn in the ignition and your steering wheel locks it's easy to fix. Try jiggling the steering wheel and checking the battery.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Ignition Relay
Common signs include the car stalling or not starting, a dead battery, and a burned relay.
How Long Does an Ignition Relay Last?
When When trying to crank a car, you will need a few vital components to be working in order for the process to be successful. On most cars, there is an intricate network of relays and switches that allow for...
Browse other content
Maintenance
Estimates