Q: My key ignition won't turn.

asked by on February 21, 2017

My ignition won't turn. I'm jiggled, WD-40, beat steering column and it won't budge. I recently bought a plain key because the problem might be old worn key. I've ordered a new cylinder but how can I replace it if the key won't turn?

My car has 200000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

The issue could be the steering column lock mechanism or the key cylinder, or both. To repair those components, typically there will be partial disassembly of the steering column. That is a sensitive area as the air bag is installed at the head of the column and the air bag must always be deactivated if you are working in that area. If you desire that the lock cylinder and possibly the lock assembly (depending on the damage) be replaced by a certified Mechanic, dispatched by YourMechanic right to your location, please request ignition cylinder/lock assembly inspection/replacement and the responding certified mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

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 supplemental airbag Warning Light mean?
The supplemental airbag Warning Light is located on the instrument panel. When this light illuminates, then your vehicle has detected an issue with one or more of the airbag systems, or the seat belt pretensioners. You should have your vehicle...
Problems with fuel system
Hi, in this case it could be any of these things that you've mentioned. I would start at checking the battery for proper voltage. If voltage is correct then I would check the fuel pump and relay. If there is...
Car vibrates and sways back and forth.
There may be a bad component in your suspension that has worn out and is causing the vibration and swaying you're experiencing. There could be various problems at fault here, I recommend having your vehicle examined by a certified mechanic...
Whooping noise when brakes are applied
Try rotating the tires to see if the tires have a small flat spot. If the noise moves to the front then replace the tires. If the noise stays in the back then have the brake rotors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-brake-rotor-disc) resurfaced or...
Car Window will not roll up
It sounds like your window switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-power-window-switch) may be faulty. If you hear the motor try to move (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-fix-common-electric-window-issues-by-ryan-carter) the window when pressing down but no noise is heard when pressing up, its most likely the window switch. If you...
My a/c intermittently blows warm and cold air.
It is possible that your blend door actuator could be failing and going back to the default position. Many vehicles will default the blend door to heat mode. When the blend door actuator fails, it will automatically revert the door...
The car I'm interested in buying has an engine knock
Engine knock by definition means the combustion taking place is mistimed or improperly detonated (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-is-misfiring-inspection). More technically it means the explosion(s) has taken place partially or completely outside of the "envelope" (or area in the cylinder that is designed to...
Car shaking and smoking
Hi there. The shaking and smoking issue you're experiencing may be caused by a fuel leak. Typically, if you look at your fluids or under the hood and can't see anything leaking, such as coolant, oil, or power steering fluid,...
Hi im looking into a used infiniti, the owner gave me the description below, how much would all of the cost me and is it worth it?
Hello, thank you for writing in. It is nearly impossible to tell what kind of costs you are looking at with this old of a vehicle. 220,000 miles is a lot, but it sounds as if the car was maintained...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Dodge Charger
If If you’ve always loved driving performance cars but you don't know how you’ll fit a baby seat in a Mustang or a Camaro, the 2012 Dodge Charger could be the car for you. While it has the room and...
How to Prevent Having Your Car Stolen
Protecting Protecting your vehicle from auto thieves can save you the hassle of trying to recover a stolen car or from having to buy another to replace it. You can choose from many options to protect your vehicle, including using...
Politics and Personal Driving Preferences: Do Republicans and Democrats Drive Different Cars?
Dodge Rams are the most popular car in Republican states; the Toyota Prius is the most popular in Democratic areas (as are hybrids and foreign cars).