With the engine off, shifter in park, your foot on the break, quickly press and release the shifter button a few times. Do this without shifting. This will temporally dislodge the solenoid cap and allow you turn the ignition to the natural position where the key can be removed. Repeat as necessary.

Try spraying a little bit of WD-40 into the ignition lock. The can should come with a thin straw that should fit (or almost fit) into the space between your key and the ignition lock. Sometimes, this additional lubrication will be enough to allow the key to be removed by gently wiggling it.

One of the most likely culprits for a stuck ignition key is the steering wheel locking mechanism. It can be a worn or damaged key that has lodged itself in the ignition switch. Pulling or yanking on the key can cause major damage to the ignition and might make it even harder to remove the key.

Take your screwdriver and insert it into the ignition lock cylinder. Turn it as far round in a clockwise direction that you can. Then pull the paperclip to the right as much as you can. You should then be able to slide the switch out easily.

Try inserting the key: Try to insert the key and turn the ignition at the same time. You can try turning the wheel on the side you turned it before it locks. If you can’t remember, try it on both sides. If your steering locks as a result of an accident, this trick will be a quick fix.

How to Lubricate an Ignition Key Lock

1. Soak your key in water to clean the key off. A dirty key might be creating extra friction and will not insert into the lock properly.
2. Spray the key with a lubricant like WD-40, and be sure the entire key is covered with a light coat.
3. Spray the lock cylinder with the lubricant.

Signs Of A Faulty Ignition Switch

• Car Won’t Start. If you turn your key and the car attempts to start, but fails, then you might have a broken ignition switch.
• Key Won’t Turn.
• Car Stalls.
• No Noise From The Starter.
• Dashboard Lights Flicker.