If you find yourself in a situation where your 2013 Chevy Cruze key is stuck in the ignition and there is no power, it can be a frustrating experience. Not only is it inconvenient, but it can also prevent you from driving your car.

In this scenario, it’s essential to troubleshoot the issue to identify the underlying cause and determine the best course of action.

This article will provide some helpful tips and techniques to help you diagnose and fix the problem of a key stuck in the ignition with no power in your 2013 Chevy Cruze. Let’s get started!

 

5 Possible Causes for 2013 Chevy Cruze Key Stuck In Ignition No Power

If your key is stuck in the ignition of your 2013 Chevy Cruze and there is no power, it could be due to a few different reasons. Here are some possible solutions:

Possible Cause	Details
1. Dead battery	Use a voltmeter to check the battery voltage. If the voltage is low, it could be due to a discharged or faulty battery. The battery terminals may also be dirty or loose, preventing the flow of electrical current.
2. Faulty ignition switch	The ignition switch is responsible for transmitting the electrical signal to start the engine. If the switch is faulty or worn out, it may not be able to properly communicate with the starter, leading to the key getting stuck in the ignition.
3. Steering wheel lock	The steering wheel lock is a security feature that engages when the key is removed from the ignition. If the steering wheel is turned too far to one side or the other when the key is removed, the lock may engage and prevent the key from turning in the ignition.
4. Incorrect shift lever position	If the shift lever is not in the correct position, such as “Park” or “Neutral” for an automatic transmission or “1st” for a manual transmission, it may prevent the key from turning in the ignition. This is a safety feature designed to prevent the car from being started while in gear.
5. Other mechanical issues	If none of the above causes are present, it’s possible that there is a more serious mechanical issue with the car’s ignition or electrical system. It’s best to take the car to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

If you are unable to identify the cause of the issue as one of the potential reasons outlined above, it may be time to perform a diagnostic assessment of various mechanical components in your car to pinpoint the root of the problem.

This will require a more thorough inspection of the vehicle’s systems and components to identify any potential faults or failures that could be causing the key to be stuck in the ignition with no power.

Also Read: 3 Ways to Fix Chevy Cruze Reduced Engine Power

5 Troubleshooting Steps for 2013 Chevy Cruze Key Stuck In Ignition No Power

Following are 5 troubleshooting steps to help you unstuck your car key quickly and easily without causing any damage.

1. Check the Battery

The first step in troubleshooting a key stuck in the ignition and no power in a 2013 Chevy Cruze is to check the battery. A dead battery can cause the car’s electrical system to malfunction, which can result in the key getting stuck in the ignition.

To check the battery, you can use a voltmeter to measure the battery voltage. The battery voltage should be at least 12.6 volts. If the battery voltage is less than this, it may be necessary to charge the battery or jump-start the car.

2. Inspect the Key

The next step in troubleshooting is to inspect the key. A worn-out or damaged key can cause the ignition to lock up, making it difficult or impossible to turn the key or remove it from the ignition.

Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as chips or bends in the key. If the key is damaged, it may be necessary to get a new key from a dealership or a qualified locksmith.

3. Check the Ignition Switch

If the battery and key are not the sources of the problem, the ignition switch may be malfunctioning. To check the ignition switch, start by verifying that the switch is in the off position. If the switch is stuck in the on position, it can prevent the key from turning or being removed from the ignition.

If the switch is in the off position, try turning the key while wiggling the steering wheel. Sometimes the steering wheel can put pressure on the ignition lock, which can cause it to stick. If this does not work, it may be necessary to inspect the ignition switch for damage or contact a qualified mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.

4. Check the Shift Lever Position

The shift lever position is an important factor that can prevent the key from turning or being removed from the ignition. If the shift lever is not in the correct position, it can activate a safety feature that prevents the key from being turned or removed.

Here are some steps to follow to check the shift lever position:

Step	Description
1. Ensure the shift lever is in the “Park” position	Make sure the shift lever is in the “Park” position before attempting to turn the key or remove it. If the shift lever is not in “Park”, the key may not turn or come out.
2. Checking for a faulty shift interlock solenoid	If the shift lever is in the “Park” position, but the key won’t turn or come out, there may be an issue with the shift interlock solenoid. The shift interlock solenoid is a safety mechanism that prevents the key from turning or being removed unless the shift lever is in the “Park” position. If this solenoid is faulty, it may not be releasing the key even when the shift lever is in the correct position.

To check if the shift interlock solenoid is faulty, you can follow these steps:

4 Steps for Troubleshooting a Faulty Shift Interlock Solenoid in a 2013 Chevy Cruze
1. Turn the ignition key to the “on” position without starting the car.
2. Press the brake pedal and try to shift the car out of “Park”.
3. Listen for a clicking sound coming from the shift interlock solenoid.
4. If you don’t hear any clicking, the shift interlock solenoid may be faulty and need to be replaced.

5. Other Troubleshooting Steps

1. Checking the fuse box: A blown fuse can prevent power from reaching the ignition system.
2. Checking for any obstructions: If the key won’t turn or come out, there may be an obstruction inside the keyway or in the steering column.

6 Possible Solutions

If you are unable to turn the key or remove it from the ignition of your 2013 Chevy Cruze, there are several possible solutions that you can try. These include:

1. Replacing the Battery or Alternator if Necessary

If the battery is dead or the alternator is faulty, the key may not turn or come out of the ignition. To fix this, replace the battery or have the alternator repaired by a professional mechanic.

2. Replacing the Key if It Is Damaged or Worn Out

If the key is bent, broken, or worn out, it may not engage the tumblers inside the ignition switch, preventing it from turning. You can replace the key with a new one from a locksmith or a dealership.

If you choose to have a locksmith make a new key, make sure they use a key blank that is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.

3. Replacing the Ignition Switch if It Is Malfunctioning

If the ignition switch is faulty, it may prevent the key from turning or being removed. To replace the ignition switch, you will need to purchase a new one that is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.

You can find replacement ignition switches at auto parts stores or online retailers. Alternatively, you can have a professional mechanic replace the ignition switch for you.

Here are the steps to follow for replacing the ignition switch:

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable: First, disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any electrical issues during the replacement process.
2. Remove the steering column covers: Use a screwdriver or socket wrench to remove the screws holding the steering column covers in place. Carefully remove the covers to expose the ignition switch.
3. Remove the ignition switch: Disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition switch and remove the mounting screws that secure the switch in place. Gently pull the ignition switch out of the steering column.
4. Install the new ignition switch: Position the new ignition switch in the steering column and secure it in place with the mounting screws. Reconnect the electrical connector.
5. Reinstall the steering column covers: Carefully reinstall the steering column covers and secure them with the screws.
6. Reconnect the negative battery cable: Finally, reconnect the negative battery cable to restore power to the vehicle.

If replacing the ignition switch does not solve the problem, the ignition tumbler may need to be replaced as well.

Here are the steps for replacing the ignition tumbler:

1. Remove the ignition switch: Follow the steps above to remove the ignition switch from the steering column.
2. Remove the ignition tumbler: Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “on” position. Use a paper clip or small tool to push the release button located on the underside of the steering column. This will release the ignition tumbler, allowing it to be removed from the steering column.
3. Install the new ignition tumbler: Insert the new ignition tumbler into the steering column and turn the key to the “on” position. The tumbler should click into place.
4. Reinstall the ignition switch: Follow the steps above to reinstall the ignition switch in the steering column.
5. Test the new ignition tumbler: Turn the key to the “on” position to ensure that the new ignition tumbler is working properly and that the key is no longer stuck in the ignition.

4. Repairing the Shift Interlock Solenoid if It Is Faulty

The shift interlock solenoid is responsible for preventing the key from being removed unless the shift lever is in the “Park” position. If it is faulty, get it repaired by a professional mechanic.

Steps for Repair:

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery.
2. Remove the shift knob by unscrewing it counterclockwise.
3. Remove the shifter boot by gently prying it up with a flathead screwdriver.
4. Locate the shift interlock solenoid, which is located near the shifter.
5. Disconnect the wiring harness from the solenoid.
6. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts securing the solenoid to the shifter assembly.
7. Install the new shift interlock solenoid and tighten the bolts.
8. Reconnect the wiring harness to the solenoid.
9. Reinstall the shifter boot and shift the knob.
10. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery.

5. Replacing the Brake Light Switch if It Is Faulty

The brake light switch sends a signal to the ignition switch when the brake pedal is depressed, allowing the key to turn or be removed. If it is faulty, replace it with a new one or have it repaired by a professional mechanic.

Here are the steps to replace the brake light switch:

Steps to Replace Brake Light Switch
1. Locate the brake light switch under the dashboard.
2. Unplug the wiring harness from the brake light switch.
3. Remove the brake light switch from the brake pedal assembly by loosening the retaining bolts.
4. Install the new brake light switch in the same position as the old one, and tighten the retaining bolts.
5. Plug in the wiring harness to the new brake light switch.
6. Test the brake lights to make sure they are working properly.
7. Adjust the position of the brake light switch if necessary to ensure proper brake light operation.
8. Reinstall any dashboard components that were removed to access the brake light switch.

It’s important to note that if you are not confident in your ability to replace the brake light switch, it’s always best to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

6. Other Possible Solutions

In addition to the above solutions, there are a few other things you can try if your key is stuck in the ignition.

• Lubricating the key and ignition cylinder with a graphite-based lubricant can help the key turn more easily.
• Cleaning the key and ignition cylinder with a soft brush and cleaning solution can remove any debris or dirt that may be blocking the keyway.
• Checking the steering column for any obstructions can also help you identify the source of the problem. If there is an obstruction inside the steering column, it may need to be disassembled and cleaned by a professional mechanic.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a stuck key in the ignition of a 2013 Chevy Cruze can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. However, there are several possible solutions that can be implemented to resolve the issue.

By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can identify and fix the underlying problem causing the key to getting stuck in the ignition. Whether it’s a dead battery, a faulty ignition switch, a damaged key, or a malfunctioning shift interlock solenoid, there is a solution available.

With the right tools and expertise, you can easily get your key out of the ignition and get back on the road safely.

References & Official Resources

• 2013 Chevrolet Cruze | Media Chevrolet
• 2013 Chevrolet Cruze Review & Ratings | Edmunds
• Chevrolet Cruze – Wikipedia
• 2013 Chevrolet Cruze Specifications | Media GM