Hello all,

I got into my car after work and put the key in to start but nothing happened. I have dashboard lights, headlights work, radio works, all electrical is a go. However, the key is stuck in position I and II. I can turn to III but the car won't start. Also, the key will not got to 0. Here's everything I've tried.

- Jiggled the steering column back and forth to attempt to release the key.
- Popped the tab near the shifter to release it to neutral and re-engage it to park.
- Took both terminals off the battery.
- Re-adjusted the steering column in several different positions.
- Waited 10 minutes to see if something needed to be reset.
- Pressed the lock/unlock button on the FOB while in the ignition.
- Crossed my fingers took a deep breath and hoped for a miracle.

I had to leave the car at work because I couldn't get it to start. Also had to leave the keys in the ignition. Thankfully I had a spare in my office so I could lock the car.

Any ideas?

Honda is a 2006 Civic DX. Original keys. It does have a remote starter that does not work anymore. I tried that too but it failed as I expected it would.

Thanks in advance!

 

So it doesn't turn to the off position but will it turn to start or run positions? Not starting is one thing, but not being able to remove the key may be something altogether different. I've been seeing some faulty starters out of these recently so that may or may not have something to do with the no crank no start.

Excessive weight hanging from the key can also wear out the mechanical portion of the ignition switch. I used to look like a janitor when I pulled out my keys... lesson learned!

Finally, and no offense but I've got to ask because I've seen it before, you are pushing in on the key when you're turning it back, right? I've seen cars towed into the shop for this. Car was having other issues and the owner went into a panic and forgot to push in on the key to get past the mechanical lockout.

Best of luck and keep us posted!

 

If the key is stuck in the ignition than the problem is most likely ignition cylinder pins which get worn over time. You cannot start the car because you cannot push the key all the way in. You cannot take out the key because the cylinder pins are stuck out. The fix is explained here: