Posted on 3/4/2025
You expect your key to turn in your vehicle's ignition. But sometimes it won't, and that's a problem, whether you're trying to start your vehicle or trying to leave it. Several things can cause this. One of the most common is that the steering column locking mechanism is stuck. Locking steering columns are an anti-theft feature introduced in the 1970s. If yours is sticking, try moving the steering wheel a little from side to side as you turn the key; sometimes it will release. A key may also stick if the vehicle is in gear. Most vehicles will only let you start in neutral or park. If you have an automatic transmission vehicle, make sure it's in park. Move the shift lever through the gears and back into park to make sure. If the key still doesn't turn, you can try jiggling the shift lever as you turn the key. Electrical and mechanical contacts sometimes don't line up properly, and a little jiggle might n ... read more