Start with the steering wheel
By far the most common reason an ignition will not turn is a locked steering wheel. If you parked while turning, or the wheel was bumped after you shut off, the steering lock engages and binds against the cylinder so the key cannot rotate. The fix is simple once you know it.
Apply steady, gentle pressure on the wheel in the direction it wants to move while you turn the key with light pressure. Do not crank the key hard. As the wheel frees, the key will usually turn normally. This trick alone solves a large share of will-not-turn calls.
Worn keys and worn cylinders
Keys wear down with years of use, and a rounded blade can no longer line up the pins inside the cylinder. If you have a spare that is used less often, try it. If the spare turns and the daily key does not, the key is the problem and a freshly cut key will fix it.
The cylinder itself also wears. Springs weaken, tumblers stick, and debris builds up inside. When the cylinder is the cause, even a new key may feel rough or refuse to turn, and the cylinder needs cleaning, repair, or replacement by a locksmith.
Other causes and when to call
On push-to-start vehicles there is no cylinder to turn, so a no-turn complaint usually means a different issue, such as the brake not pressed or the fob not detected. On keyed cars, also confirm the shifter is fully in park, since the interlock can block rotation.
If the steering trick and a spare key do not solve it, the cylinder likely needs service. A mobile locksmith can repair or replace the ignition on site, so call us with your year, make, and model and we will come prepared.
Still have a key or fob question?
Tell us your year, make, and model and we will confirm exactly what your vehicle needs before we head out.