Gently turn the steering wheel left and right while turning the key: most of the time the steering lock is holding it. If that doesn’t free it, the key or the ignition barrel is worn, and an auto locksmith can repair or replace it at the car.
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What to do, in order
5 steps. Try them in this order; the last one is when to call someone.
Wiggle the steering wheel
Turn the wheel gently both ways while turning the key. This releases a steering lock that’s under tension.
Check it’s in Park or neutral
Automatics won’t release the key or turn it unless they’re in Park.
Try the spare key
If the spare turns, your main key is worn and a new one will fix it.
Don’t force it
Forcing the key can snap it inside the ignition, which turns a repair into an extraction too.
Call an auto locksmith
They can free the steering lock, repair the barrel, or fit a new one coded to your key.
What it costs
How to get a fair price for ignition repair.
Get the price before they set off
- It depends on the car, the key and the time of day, so most local locksmiths don’t publish prices.
- Ask for the full price, call-out included, when you call or message, and only agree once you have it.
- Where a locksmith publishes their own prices, we show them on their card, and on their profile with a link to their page.
Services that fix it
The service for this, and what it can turn out to need.
- Ignition repairIgnition barrels and switches repaired or replaced when the key won’t turn.
- Steering lock repairMechanical steering locks freed, repaired or replaced.
- Electronic steering lock repairElectronic steering lock (ESL/ELV) faults repaired or the unit replaced and coded.
- Broken key extractionA snapped key taken out of the door, boot or ignition without damaging the lock.
Find a verified locksmith near you
Pick your town to see who covers it for ignition repair, and ask them for a price.
Questions
Is it the battery?
On most cars a flat battery doesn’t stop the key turning, but on some newer cars it locks the steering electronically. If the dashboard stays dark, check the battery first.
How much is an ignition repair?
A repair costs less than a new barrel coded to your key, and the car makes a difference. Ask the locksmith which one it is likely to be, and the price of each, before they come out.
Can a locksmith replace an ignition barrel?
Yes. An auto locksmith can fit a new barrel and code it to your existing key, so you keep using the same key, usually at the car.
Other problems
- Locked your keys in the car? What to do
- Lost your car keys? How to get a replacement
- Car key fob not working? Causes and fixes
- Car key snapped or broken? What to do
- Spare car key: how to get one, and the cost
- How much does a replacement car key cost?
- Can a locksmith make a car key?
- Emergency locksmith near me? How to choose