Thread: Key stuck in ignition lock cylinder

Had this problem for the first time last night. Had to leave keys in the ignition overnight. I disconnected the neg connection on the the battery to try to keep the battery from going dead. Today I found this forum and hit the solenoid buton to get the key out. Then with the barrery reconnected I noticed I had no power to anything. I then checked the battery and it was completly dead. I charged it to 90% then tried starting the car- nothing but a stuck key again and no power put the charger on again and it read as 25% charged. Its got me baffled any ideas?

Low battery voltage can cause the key to stick in the ignition (not enough voltage to energize the solenoid that releases the key). I think the key stuck in the ignition is a symptom and not the problem. It sounds like you have either a bad battery, charging system, or something is drawing current when it shouldn't. Good luck!

Originally Posted by Rich

Low battery voltage can cause the key to stick in the ignition (not enough voltage to energize the solenoid that releases the key). I think the key stuck in the ignition is a symptom and not the problem. It sounds like you have either a bad battery, charging system, or something is drawing current when it shouldn't. Good luck!

Battery replaced within last 2 years -original lasted that long- didnt have that problem with the key when it died- Battery went from 90% charged to 25% by just trying to turn key and then the key wouldnt come out again- but ay 25% charge (according to my battery charger) it should have enough to engage a solenoid- but nothing would work again- but what could draw that much charge in seconds? No sound of anything engaging or drawing current.