Key Stuck In Ignition Jeep Grand Cherokee? Best 191 Answer

Do you own a Chevy bike and find your car key stuck in the ignition, Chevy Colorado or a car model and build your own? I think that is why you are reading this article.

It can be very scary to find yourself in such a situation. Don’t panic lest you break the key in the ignition which could result in an expensive repair.

This article has provided sufficient information on what causes the car key to be stuck in the ignition and how to remove it. Let’s keep it short and get straight to the point!

Common reasons why a car key gets stuck in the ignition

Some problems are as confusing as a car key stuck in the ignition. You’re probably wondering, “Why is my car key in the ignition when you can’t pull it out?”

The common cause is always the easiest to fix. The most common causes are a locked steering wheel, a car not in park, or the car’s computer thinking the key is still in the ON position while it’s off. Other reasons are dirt on the key, broken lock cylinder, worn out key, dead battery or wrong key stuck in the ignition.

Car not in park position: Vehicles are equipped with several safety features. For example, if your vehicle is not in the park position in your automatic transmission, the car key will not be pulled out. Similarly, on manual transmissions, the shift lever must be placed in neutral before the key is removed. If you own a vehicle with a manual or automatic transmission, you should know this by now.

In older vehicles, there is a possibility that the plastic or rubber shift rail has cracked. There may be dirt or debris on the sidewall that is preventing the shifter from going into park.

The car is in accessory mode: Most vehicles that use normal keys also have an accessory position in the car. Accessory mode is a single click after off mode. It allows a driver to use some car functions without having to start the car engine. These features include a power locking window and radio.

You probably didn’t realize that you left the key in accessory mode because you were in a hurry. Next time you can’t get your key out, try turning the car on and turning it off to the off position.

Locked steering wheel: Here comes another safety feature in a car that can result in a car key being stuck in the ignition but not turning off or starting – the wheel lock. This function is activated automatically when you exert some force on the steering wheel, especially when the vehicle is parked.

Wheel locks are fitted in cars to prevent steering wheel movement when there is no key in the ignition switch. Unfortunately, it sometimes engages while the key is still in the ignition.

Failed ignition cylinder: As with most electrical and mechanical components in a car, the ignition cylinder will fail over time. But what happens if it fails when you insert the car key? You have a key in the “ignition ON” position, or whatever key position it was in before the ignition cylinder failed.

One of the ways to ensure your ignition cylinder lasts is to reduce the number of items on your key holder. Many things on a keychain will cause them to sway back and forth, increasing the likelihood of aging and premature wear. Aging and premature wear can also result in the key being stuck in the ignition and the car not starting or shutting down.

Dirt on the key: Car keys are sensitive to any form of imperfection. Debris or dirt on the car key can prevent the ignition from turning on and off.

Most of us use our car keys as pocket knives on several occasions. Digging things up, opening boxes or mail, scratching things to name a few. Any of these activities can leave dirt on the car key.

Empty battery: The car ignition system works with electrical voltage. If your car battery is dead, it may prevent you from receiving the key. A good indication that a key is in the ignition due to a dead battery is a repeated clicking sound when you try to start the vehicle.

While a dead battery can prevent you from removing the ignition key, this rarely happens. Repeated clicks when turning the ignition usually indicate a dead battery or corroded battery terminals. It could also be a faulty starter.

Worn out ignition key: The last reason could be that you have a damaged or worn out key. As mentioned above, many of us use our car keys for a few things that don’t involve starting the car. These lead to accelerated wear of the key. Car keys are specially designed to lock and unlock doors and start the vehicle. Refrain from using your car keys for other things.

Step by step how to get the key out of the ignition

As there are several reasons why a car key can get stuck in the ignition, there are also a number of guides on how to remove the key from the ignition. Let’s see the guides below.

Charge your car battery: Because a dead battery can cause a car key to get stuck in the ignition, charging the battery frees the key.

If you suspect a low voltage battery or hear a repeated click when you turn the key, charge the battery to determine if it is a low voltage issue. You can start the car with a different battery or vehicle.

Shift the shifter into Park: A common problem with a key stuck in the ignition is removing the car key without properly shifting the shifter into Park.

If this is the case, make sure the shift lever is in Park by moving it between Park and Neutral while pressing the brake pedal, turning the ignition key backwards, and removing the key.

Unlock the steering wheel: As alluded to above, the wheel lock is a security feature that prevents the steering wheel from moving when the key is removed. If the steering wheel locks up with the key in the ignition, try rocking it back and forth while carefully removing the ignition key.

Spray lubricant into the ignition cylinder: If the key is stuck due to dirt, lubricate the lock with any spray lubricant. This can be difficult as the key blocks the lock. To achieve this you need a spray lube straw. A great example of such a lubricant is WD-40.

Jiggle the ignition: A tried and true technique that has saved many people is to slide the key into the lock cylinder with your left hand while wiggling the steering wheel with your right hand.

Move the key and steering wheel back and forth while pressing the brake pedal. This will likely pull out the key.

Reading Error Codes: Have all the steps above turned out to be unsuccessful? Get an OBD2 scanner to pull out all the trouble codes from related units to see if you have a fuse or shifter problem. If you have a more advanced scanner, you can read trouble codes from the ignition switch and immobilizer.

Check the security key: Many Japanese and American cars are equipped with an auxiliary ignition switch that requires you to insert the key and press a button to freely turn the key and remove it. Consult your user manual to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Consult Your Mechanic: If you’ve tried the above steps and none of them work, it’s time to consult your mechanic. You don’t have many options left. Have your mechanic take a professional look at it. You probably have a faulty ignition switch that needs to be replaced, or your immobilizer is integrated into the ignition switch and will need to be reprogrammed after replacing the unit.

Frequently asked Questions:

Q: How much does it cost to take the key out of the ignition?

Getting a broken regular key out of the ignition costs $100 to $150 depending on how difficult the task is. Sometimes it will be a little more or less.

However, if the key in question is a transponder key, it will cost more as it is a more complex key that sends and receives signals from the vehicle’s security system.

They are fitted with microchips that send signals to the car’s anti-theft sensors when they detect a fault. Of course, these types of keys entail more complex work and fees to get them out of the ignition. Removing faulty transponder keys costs $250.

Q: How do you know if your ignition lock cylinder is faulty?

Like most electrical and mechanical components in a car, a faulty ignition switch cylinder (aka ignition switch assembly) gives some indication to alert the driver that something is wrong. The symptoms are as follows;

Challenge when starting the vehicle

Auto not start state

Problems inserting and removing the ignition key

No noise from the starter

Flickering dashboard lights.

Q: How do you test an ignition lock cylinder?

Testing an ignition lock cylinder is as easy as ABC. If you notice any of the above signs, do not close yet, but perform an ignition lock cylinder test to confirm its operational condition.

Locate and open the fuse box under the steering wheel and pull out the starter signal fuse.

Check the metal strip on the fuse and make sure it is not burned or damaged. If blown, replace with a suitable fuse from the same amplifier.

Get your voltmeter and set the dial to volts. Connect the red probe to the battery positive terminal and the black probe to the chassis or frame of the vehicle. The meter reading should read about 12.6 volts. If less than 12 volts, charge or replace the battery.

Put the key in the ignition and start the engine. If it cranks, you have a working ignition lock cylinder. If it does not start, but there is a click when you turn the key to the start position, the ignition switch is also good. But if it didn’t crank and didn’t make a clicking sound; You have a faulty ignition switch that needs to be replaced.

Q: Can a locksmith pull a broken key out of the ignition?

Regardless of the type of your key; Normal or transponder key, if it breaks in the cylinder of the ignition lock, a good locksmith who knows his stuff can get it out.

Q: How long does it take to replace the ignition lock cylinder?

Assuming the person or mechanic performing the replacement is knowledgeable and all the necessary replacement parts are available, it only takes 30 to 45 minutes to install a new ignition switch.

Last word

After seeing the reasons for a key stuck in the ignition switch and how to remove it, there is no need to panic if you find yourself in such a situation.

Assuming your car key is stuck in the ignition, try the steps above to remove it. The steps are as easy as ABC.

Don’t forget to contact your mechanic if all steps prove to be unsuccessful. In the event of a broken key, I recommend having it professionally removed by a locksmith without causing further damage to the ignition lock cylinder.

If your vehicle’s ignition and key are not working properly, you may panic! Nobody looks forward to a situation that can leave them stranded.

However, before you panic, there are several reasons why this could be happening. Start with the simplest scenarios and work your way up to find a solution to your ignition problem. Most of the time it’s an easy fix!

Have you accidentally tried to start someone else’s car?

Ok, this may sound silly, but it happens! People are actually trying to start the wrong car. The average car key has a few hundred thousand possible combinations. Although unlikely, you can actually unlock someone else’s car door unintentionally. However, once you access the car, you may not be able to turn it on again due to another security measure built into the vehicle’s ignition.

This problem can occur in a busy parking lot that may have similar cars to your own. Make sure you are trying to start the correct vehicle before checking for other issues.

Locked steering wheel/ignition key and what you can do to unlock them

Locking your steering wheel can easily happen and is easy to fix. The ignition is mechanically connected to your steering wheel lock. This is for security in case a thief tries to steer the car without the key.

If a person parks their car with the steering wheel turned or tries to turn the wheel after the car is parked, the wheel and ignition key can lock up.

To unlock them, simply reinsert your key and slowly turn it in the direction you would normally start the car while slowly turning the steering wheel in the only direction that allows you. This normally unlocks the steering wheel.

Check your ignition for dirt or debris.

A lot of debris can accumulate inside cars over time. It is possible that these particles get into your ignition and cause problems when turning the key. Check for visible deposits in your ignition. If you can remove it manually, using your hands or blowing gently, do it.

If you’re still having trouble getting rid of the dirt or debris, you can try compressed air. Get a can of compressed air, which is commonly used to clean computer keyboards, and spray it in the ignition.

Damaged/worn key or ignition cylinder

When it comes down to it, your car is a mechanical system and mechanical things tend to break down or wear out over time. This applies to both mechanical keys and key cylinders. After being keyed in and out a thousand times over the years, things can get worn and worn out.

After a while, the key may stop turning or fall out of the cylinder altogether. Contact a professional to replace your damaged parts. Damaged keys can easily be replaced by using a professional like Cheap Lock & Key to cut a new one. Damaged ignition cylinders may need to be replaced and this should also be done by a qualified professional like us.

When replacing your mechanical systems it is important to get a retuned lock set that includes both the door and trunk cylinders.

Let Cheap Lock & Key replace your ignition cylinder and mechanical keys.

If all else fails, replacing the ignition cylinder and key is the best course of action. It will ensure the mechanical functions are working properly again and it will be a more permanent fix.

If you have additional questions about your vehicle’s ignition system and mechanical keys, or need an ignition cylinder or key replacement, contact a local locksmith like Cheap Lock & Key! You can reach us at (813) 545-5462.

The ignition lock cylinder is a crucial component of your car. As important as it is, most car owners pay too much attention to it. You take it for granted until it wears out over time and then you can no longer use it properly or start your vehicle. Then you may need to replace it.

Once you have the key, removing it is relatively easy. Without them, the process requires a few extra steps.

Tools you need to change an ignition key lock without a key

To successfully complete the process of removing an ignition lock cylinder without a key, you must ensure that you have the following tools:

drilling machine

drill

flathead screwdriver

Step One – Battery Disconnect

The first part of removing or replacing a keyless ignition cylinder involves disconnecting the battery. This is a safety precaution to ensure you don’t short out or get an electric shock in your car.

To do this, you need to remove the negative cable clamp.

Step Two – Remove steering wheel

Next you need to remove your car’s steering wheel so you have full access to the lock cylinder. Remove all the screws from the top and bottom covers of the steering wheel and after removing the covers, lift the steering wheel up and pull the middle cover. You can now disconnect the wires to the car horn.

Be sure to set the nuts and washers securely, then pull the steering wheel completely off its axis.

Step Three – Remove the windshield wipers and turn signal switches

These are easy to find using your car’s owner’s manual and just need to be removed from their place.

Step 4 – Removal of the steering column sleeve

Inside the car’s steering wheel column you should be able to find the spacer columns. Once you find them, slide them up.

Step 5 – Disconnect the electrical system from the ignition switch

Locate and loosen the ignition switch mounting screws, and then pull out the ignition switch.

You must be careful to disconnect all wires from the appropriate connector on the underside of the ignition switch. Release the tabs and pull the switch out.

Step Six – Remove the mounting screws

Use either a screwdriver or socket wrench to remove the mounting studs or screws from the ignition switch. Completely detach the housing and switch assembly holding the lock barrel.

You will find that most car models have interchangeable universal lock cylinders. These are easy enough to remove by using a pin in the pinhole to operate the release mechanism.

Step Seven – Check the ignition switch housing mounting screws

You will find that some car models, depending on the manufacturer, have easy-to-remove breakaway security screw heads. This component is designed to prevent thieves from breaking into your car and changing the ignition switch so they can drive your vehicle without a key. You may need to use a drill with special pullers designed to remove the screws on the ignition switch to remove it from the steering wheel column.

Step Eight – Key Cylinder Lock

Take the ignition lock cylinder and a straightened paper clip and insert the clip into the slot and then twist counterclockwise. This will lock the cylinder and not start the ignition.

Step Nine – Screwdriver

Take your screwdriver and insert it into the ignition lock cylinder. Turn it clockwise as far as possible. Then drag the paper clip to the right as far as possible. The switch should then pull out easily.

That’s all there really is to it. If you have an older vehicle and this is the first time you’ve tinkered with the ignition lock cylinder, this may not be the easiest thing to do. This is because a lot of dust and dirt has accumulated in and around the cylinder.

Step 10 – Replacing the ignition lock cylinder

Whether cleaning and replacing a keyless ignition lock cylinder is necessary depends on the individual components and their condition. You can use the same keys and rebuild it if everything looks fine and seems to be working fine after a good cleaning and oiling. However, it may be time to buy a brand new ignition switch.

You have to keep in mind that unless you know for sure that a generic ignition lock cylinder (or the individual components you need to replace ) work in your car how to get spare keys. Be sure to include the exact model, year and make of your vehicle along with the VIN number to ensure you receive the correct part.

Losing your car keys can turn a good day into a terrible day. However, what’s worse if you lose your keys completely or accidentally lock them in your car without being able to get them out?

If you have a Jeep and got to this article because you locked up the keys, don’t panic! You may think you need to go to an expensive locksmith to fix the problem, but there are ways you can unlock a jeep using the keys inside.

The success of the methods depends on your Jeep model, but we have shared some ideas in the article to help you get your keys back.

There are several methods you can try to gain access to your jeep. This includes using a Slim Jim tool to pry open the door or connecting your vehicle to Uconnect and pressing the unlock button on the app. You can attempt to get into a locked jeep by finding a gap in the soft top roof or breaking into the vehicle via the trunk or door.

How to unlock jeep with keys inside

If you’ve managed to lock your keys in your Jeep, don’t rush to contact your dealer just yet. Often a Jeep dealer can program a new key for you, but this comes at a hefty price.

Locksmiths can also replace the key and get you back in your Jeep, but that too can get expensive, and not all locksmiths have the knowledge necessary to program a key fob that uses more complex technology.

Before you rush to call for help, try one of the following methods:

1. Pick the lock

No, you can’t use a credit card like they do in the old movies. However, if you have a flathead screwdriver and a coat hanger, you can open the door far enough to unlock it.

The easiest way to do this is to stick the flathead screwdriver in the door jam, use it as a lever to open the door as far as possible, and then use the hanger to unlock the door.

2. Enter through the trunk

You need to use a similar method as above to unlock the trunk. You should be able to pry a screwdriver into a small opening in the trunk, usually behind the license plate (this will need to be removed).

Once you’ve managed to open the latch, you need to carefully try to unlock it with the hanger. This method isn’t easy, but it can work if you’re having trouble gaining access by unlocking the door.

3. Use an access airbag

If you’re concerned about causing damage with a screwdriver, hammer, or other tool, you can use an easily accessible airbag tool. These tools are available from companies like Access Tools and Pro-Lock and are referred to as “Slim Jims”.

To unlock your door with a Slim Jim, insert the deflated pouch into the door jam and inflate the attached bladder until the door opens wide enough for you to use the long range tool.

Once the door is ajar and you’ve inserted the tool, gently move it around and try to unlock the door lock. Deflate the bladder on the airbag and you can now open the door.

Here’s a YouTube video if you want a visual tutorial of this method:

4. Enter through the roof

If your Jeep has a soft top, you may be able to unlock the door through the roof. Gently move your hand around the top’s seam until you find a gap, stretch your arm down, and unlock the door if you can.

Using a grabbing tool or a coat hanger can help you reach the lock. Once you open the door you can get your keys out from inside. Be careful when using this method as you don’t want to damage your jeep’s top.

5. Use an automatic wobbler key

Auto-Jigglers are a special type of key that can be used to unlock multiple different vehicles, including Jeeps. Remember that there is no point in keeping your Auto Jiggler on your car keychain. Instead, keep it separate and in a place where you can easily find it.

To open a jeep with a car jiggler key, simply insert the key into the lock and wiggle it around. Wave the key in all directions and in a matter of seconds the lock should spring open and the door will now open.

6. Unlock with your smartphone

Newer Jeep models, including the Jeep Cherokee, are compatible with the Uconnect app. You need to download Uconnect to your smartphone and connect it to your vehicle. If you ever lock your keys in your app, all you have to do is go into Uconnect and press unlock, it’s that simple.

7. Smash the window

This method should be your last resort. If none of the above methods worked and you are unable to reach a locksmith, your dealership, or even 911, you may need to consider damaging your car to get the keys out.

However, if you manage to smash the window and recover the keys, you’ll be driving home with a broken window and putting yourself at risk of injury from broken glass.

Different Types of Jeep Keys

All vehicles used to be locked and unlocked manually with a hard key. Drivers would unlock their cars like they would unlock their houses, insert the key and turn.

However, as technology has advanced and more vehicles are becoming “keyless”, the way drivers can lock and unlock their vehicles has changed.

If you own a Jeep, the type of key and locking/unlocking system depends on what year, make and model you have. Let’s take a look at the keys used on some of the most popular Jeep vehicles:

ignition key

Jeeps made prior to the mid-1990s would all have used a regular ignition key. This is a key that you can use to manually unlock your door and start your vehicle. There are no fancy buttons or built-in anti-theft technology.

Because these keys are fairly basic, they’re easy to replace if you’ve lost your own, and they’re not as expensive as keys that have a radio key or transponder chip.

Funk keychain

A wireless key fob is programmed to connect to your car and lock and unlock it with the push of a button. These keys allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle without having to put the key in the door.

Transponder chip key

Keys with a transponder chip are commonly found in vehicles that use keyless entry and a push button start. These keys are programmed with a unique serial number and emit a faint signal that is read by the RFID receiver in your car.

A transponder chip key can lock and unlock your car, but since you’re in close proximity to the receiver, you don’t even have to take it out of your pocket. The ignition only starts if the serial number of the transponder is recognized by the vehicle.

If you lose your remote control key, you will need to get a new one and have it reprogrammed to be compatible with your vehicle.

The type of your jeep key depends on the make and model you drive. Models released in recent years often use the push button, and keyless entry is also gaining popularity as newer Jeep models are released.

Whatever key you have, it’s not a good idea to lock it in your Jeep. Can a jeep be locked with the key? What can you do if you accidentally lock your keys in your jeep? Read on to find out!

Can you accidentally lock the key fob in your car?

It can be easy to accidentally leave your key fob in your Jeep, especially if you have a Jeep with a push stop start button. When you don’t need the key to turn off the ignition, it can be all too easy to leave your key fob somewhere in the vehicle.

Push button start was only introduced on the Jeep Wrangler in 2018 and is not used on all Jeep models and trim levels. However, in recent years this feature has grown in popularity, making drivers more likely to accidentally leave their keys in their vehicle.

Whether you have an ignition button or use the key to start the car, is it even possible for the keys to get locked inside?

Finally, as we have already explained, the key fob constantly communicates with your vehicle and should know if it is inside or outside your jeep.

While it’s difficult to lock your key fob in your Jeep, it’s not impossible, especially if the key fob’s battery is dead and not effectively receiving signals from your vehicle.

There are several different jeep vehicles available on the market today and unfortunately it is possible to lock the keys in all of them. However, with the introduction of more advanced anti-theft technology, you may find that your Jeep only locks the keys inside under certain circumstances.

For example, if you have the 2020 Jeep Gladiator and you turn off the engine, press the door lock button and then get out, close the door and leave the key fob inside, your Jeep will not lock!

That’s right, your Jeep will know the key is in and will honk the horn and flash the lights. If you go back to your jeep and try to open the door, you will see that it is not locked.

However, again using the Jeep Gladiator as an example: if you press the door lock button, drive and then pull up the curb, let the car run and jump out and close the door behind you, the key fob will lock the jeep inside!

This might be a very specific scenario, but if you do this you risk having your key fob locked in your jeep with no easy way of getting it back.

Here is a YouTube video of a Jeep driver intentionally trying to lock the key fob in his Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator. Have a watch if you are curious if you can lock your key in your jeep:

As you can see it is possible to lock your key fob in your jeep. It may not be easy due to the technology used, but it can happen. Aside from the engine running, there are other circumstances that may cause you to lock your keys in your jeep:

The key fob battery is dead

If the battery in your key fob is getting low, it may not be able to communicate effectively with the sensors in your car. If the battery is low, it is possible that your key will get locked in your jeep.

The car battery is empty

As above, the sensors are powered by your car battery and if the battery dies the signal from your key may not be received meaning the keys could become locked inside.

programming problems

If for any reason there is a problem with your key’s programming, the anti-theft technology may not work and the key may be locked in your vehicle.

Problems with the door sensor

The sensors in your Jeep door enable the keyless entry feature. Sometimes errors in the sensor can make you unable to get the keys out if you accidentally left them in your jeep.

frequently asked Questions

Can jeep lock with keys inside?

Although anti-theft technology and smart key fobs with transponder chips make locking your keys in your Jeep difficult, it is possible. If the car is empty in your key fob or the car battery is dead, the key’s signals may not be received and may be locked inside.

Programming issues or a faulty transponder chip can also cause your car to lock even if the key fob is still in the vehicle. To avoid this, replace your key fob’s battery as soon as you notice it’s getting low.

How to unlock a jeep compass with keys inside?

If the keys are trapped in your Jeep Compass, there are several methods you can try to get them out. Slim Jim tools and jiggler keys can help you gain access to your jeep without causing any damage.

However, if these are not available, you can try unlocking your Jeep Compass using a flathead screwdriver and a coat hanger. If your Compass has Uconnect, you can also unlock your Jeep using the app on your smartphone.

How do you open a jeep door without a key?

If your Jeep has “keyless entry”, you can unlock the door simply by carrying the key fob, no need to press any buttons or put the key in the lock.

Sensors in the door handle pick up radio signals from the chip inside the key fob and when you put your hand on the door, it magically opens! However, if you lose your keys, you may need to call a locksmith or the Jeep dealership to gain access to your vehicle.

Alternatively, you can attempt to break into your own jeep using a screwdriver and coat hanger, automatic wobble keys, or try to get through the soft top or trunk to the door.

Can I unlock my Jeep with my phone?

Yes, if your Jeep has the Uconnect feature, you can connect your smartphone to your vehicle through the app. With Uconnect you can easily lock and unlock your Jeep, you don’t need keys or even to be near your car.

How do I replace a lost Jeep key?

If you have lost the key to your Jeep, you can get a replacement from a locksmith. However, a locksmith may not be able to duplicate keys for all Jeep models, and you may have trouble finding an exact replacement online on sites like Amazon.

While it is possible to easily buy keys online for many Jeep models, you may have difficulties when it comes to programming your key fob. The best option, albeit the most expensive, is to buy a new Jeep from a dealer and ask them to program it for you.

Conclusion

Getting your keys locked in your Jeep can feel like an absolute nightmare. After all, what use are your keys if you’ve locked yourself out of your car?

Luckily, it’s possible to get your keys out of your Jeep and unlock the doors, it might just take a little trial and error. Calling a locksmith is definitely the easiest way to deal with this situation, but if you don’t want to pay a big bill, you can try doing the job yourself.

If you have the Uconnect app, no need to panic at all, just press unlock and voila! However, if you don’t have Uconnect, there are several methods you can try to break into your Jeep and retrieve the keys.