The ignition on our car is so sticky that the key doesn’t want to be removed. It’s not only your problem; rest assured, other car owners can relate.
This is often an annoying, frustrating, and even scary situation you will be. To make it worse, if this happens while you are on the way or in a surrounding area that you are unfamiliar with.
Thankfully, this is a problem we can fix. We will show you how to fix override function to remove key from ignition.
Article Summary
Causes Of Override Function To Remove Key From Ignition
It is important to figure out why your key may be stuck in the ignition before you analyze it any further. Some common causes include:
Gear Not in Park: When the keys are allowed to be removed from most automatic cars, they need the gear to be ‘equipped with dark.’
The steering wheel Lock: If you can’t take out the keys, it means your key is in the Lock position.
Battery Problems: Sometimes, a stuck key can be caused by the battery dying or being weak.
Debris or Obstructions: When the key is stuck in the ignition, our locksmiths check for clogged debris or other obstructions contained in it.
Broken Key or Ignition Cylinder: Over time, a broken key causes alignment problems.
How to Remove the Key From Ignition
Make Sure Gear Is In the Park
For cars with automatic transmissions, check to see that the gearshift is in ‘Park. In other cases, the gear lever might seem like it’s in Park, but not all of it. Give the gear shift a gentle wiggle to make sure it is secure.
Check the Steering Wheel Lock
If the steering wheel is locked, this can prevent the key from being removed. Also, turn the steering gently in both directions and try removing the key again. This will help release the lock on your steering.
Jiggling the Key
Try the old twist-the-key-in-the-ignition trick, but be gentle with it. This sometimes removes any inner hindrances.
Inspect the Battery
Sometimes, the ignition switch system has a problem. A dead or weak battery is responsible for this issue. If you think it’s a battery, go ahead and attempt to jump-start it. Also, when the battery is charged, try to take the key again.
Clean the Ignition Cylinder
Over time, the inside of your ignition cylinder can get clogged with dirt and other debris, making it hard to take out your key. Take a can of compressed air and blow out the crumb.
Warning: Use very gentle pressure, or you will damage the ignition circuits
Using Graphite Powder or Lubricant
Follow up if the key is extracted from the ignition with a little help. Put a little lubricant on the key and try moving it back into your ignition, then remove it again. Use a compatible synthetic (not oil-based) lubricant, as the latter can attract further dirt and debris.
Use the Override Function (if applicable)
In an emergency, many American cars have a ready-made override feature that allows you to pull out the key. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual on how to access and use this override functionality. Typically, that’s done by pressing a hidden button or using a special tool provided to make it.
How to Avoid Override Function To Remove Key From Ignition
To avoid this issue in the future… keep these steps handy…
- Clean and maintain your ignition cylinder regularly.
- Heavy keychains put an extra burden on your ignition and can cause the tumbler to wear down prematurely.
- Keep your battery healthy. Make sure that there is nothing wrong with it, and check its health periodically.
- Inspect your ignition system during routine vehicle maintenance.
FAQs on Override Function To Remove Key From Ignition
Why is my key stuck in the ignition?
The ignition key can be left in the lock for many reasons: not putting the automatic transmission lever into the ‘P’ position, engaging the steering column lock mechanism, low charge or damage of the battery, pollution inside the ignition cylinder, or wearing and tear out due to low-quality parts.
Can a dead battery cause my key to get stuck in the ignition?
Yes. It could be a faulty or dead battery that prevents the ignition key system from releasing the key. A simple jump-start or battery replacement could fix the ignition key system error problem.
How to get steering wheel to unlock and key out?
To release the steering wheel, shake it a little to the right and then to the left as you attempt to back out your key. This can free up the steering lock and remove the key.
What should you do if cleaning and lubricating the ignition cylinder does not work?
If cleaning and lubricating the ignition cylinder does not fix the issue, a look in your owner’s manual will tell you if there is an override. If this doesn’t work, have a professional mechanic look at it to prevent any damage from occurring.
How to prevent keys stuck in the ignition?
Keep the ignition cylinder clean and maintained, do not wear prolonged or heavy keychains on your car keys (this wears out the tumblers), have a good battery, and have it checked during routine maintenance.
Conclusion
If you follow the correct procedure, removing a spare key left in the ignition is easy, too. By getting to know the common reasons and applying the right solutions, you can efficiently get rid of this problem and keep enjoying your journey.
If you are ever unsure, it is best to speak with us before any more damage can be done to your vehicle.
