If you’re having trouble getting your 2015 Chevy Impala key out of the ignition, don’t worry – it’s not just you.
Many Impala owners have experienced this issue. There are a few possible causes for this issue, but there are also several ways to resolve it.
In this article, I’ll explain what causes keys to stick in the ignition and how to fix them so you can be back on the road in no time.
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Common Causes of 2015 Chevy Impala Key Stuck In Ignition
It’s a common problem that can cause plenty of stress and frustration: you turn the key in your Chevy Impala’s ignition but it won’t budge, stuck like glue.
This is more than an everyday inconvenience; not being able to get your car started can be downright dangerous if you’re stranded on the side of the road or running late for an important meeting.
But don’t worry – there are some known causes when keys get stuck in ignitions and I’m here to help you understand them better.
| Common Causes | Possible Solutions |
|---|---|
| 1. Dust or debris blocking the ignition mechanism | Use compressed air to blow out any debris; lubricate the mechanism with graphite powder or silicone spray |
| 2. Worn or damaged ignition cylinder | Replace the ignition cylinder with a new one |
| 3. Loose or damaged key | Use a spare key or have a new key made |
| 4. After-market components (e.g. steering wheel locks) interfering with the key mechanism | Remove the after-market component or adjust it to allow the key to turn properly |
Whatever the reason may be, this always calls for extra caution because safety concerns should never be taken lightly.
How to Diagnose the Problem
After discussing the common causes of a key stuck in the ignition, it’s time to move on to diagnosing the problem. As a car ignition expert with years of experience, I can tell you that troubleshooting steps are essential when trying to diagnose why your Chevy Impala’s key is stuck in the ignition system.
| Steps to Take |
|---|
| 1. Check for foreign objects blocking the key’s movement within the ignition cylinder. |
| 2. Inspect all electrical components connected to the ignition system for signs of wear and tear or corrosion. |
| 3. Verify the key is not loose or damaged. |
| 4. Check for any after-market components (e.g. steering wheel locks) interfering with the key mechanism. |
| 5. If none of the above steps work, the ignition cylinder itself may be worn or damaged. |
Make sure everything looks good before proceeding as faulty parts may result in more serious issues down the line if left unchecked.
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Different Solutions to the Problem
If your Chevy Impala key is stuck in the ignition, your first step should be to call a professional locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to safely remove the key without damaging the ignition.
If you’re feeling a bit more DIY, you can try using a key extractor tool or using the brake pedal to release the stuck key. Likewise, there are various other methods to troubleshoot key sticking issues.
All in all, no matter what solution you choose, it’s important to take the proper safety precautions. After all, the last thing you want is to end up with a bigger problem than you started out with.
1. Try jiggling the key
If you are experiencing a problem with your 2015 Chevy Impala where the key is stuck in the ignition, one of the solutions you can try is jiggling the key.
To jiggle the key, gently wiggle it back and forth while attempting to remove it from the ignition. However, be careful not to apply too much force, as this could cause the key to break or damage the ignition.
You can also try applying slight upward pressure while jiggling the key, as this can sometimes help dislodge it from the lock cylinder.
2. Using a Graphite-Based Lubricant
If jiggling the key doesn’t work, it may be necessary to use a graphite-based lubricant to help loosen any dirt or debris that may be causing the key to stick.
Graphite lubricants are specifically designed for use with lock cylinders and can help lubricate the keyway without attracting dirt or debris.
To use graphite lubricant on a key stuck in the ignition, you will need to purchase a graphite lubricant spray from an auto parts store. Begin by spraying a small amount of the graphite lubricant into the keyhole.
Now try jiggling the key gently while attempting to remove it. This may help loosen any dirt or debris that may be causing the key to stick.
3. Using the Brake Pedal to Release a Stuck Key
One effective method is to press the brake pedal firmly and then attempt to turn the key while also gently turning the steering wheel back and forth. This can help release any tension on the key caused by the steering column being locked.
Often, the key can become stuck if the steering column is locked in a certain position, preventing the key from turning. By pressing the brake pedal and gently turning the steering wheel back and forth, you can help release the tension and allow the key to turn freely.
It’s important to avoid using excessive force or attempting to use tools like coat hangers, as these can cause damage to the ignition cylinder or key.
4. Using a Key Extractor Tool
Another solution to getting that key out of the ignition is using a Key Extractor Tool. It’s an effective method for preventing further damage and it can be done without professional help.
Using a Key Extractor Tool could save you time and money as it’s designed specifically for extracting keys safely and quickly from the lockset.
Plus, there are many instructional videos online which can guide you through the process step-by-step so even DIYers should have no trouble at all!
Therefore, having a Key Extractor Tool on hand is essential if you want to handle such scenarios efficiently.
5. Calling a Professional Locksmith
I always recommend calling a professional locksmith if all else fails. They’ll have the right tools and expertise necessary to safely remove the key from the ignition without causing any further damages or costs involved.
Plus, they ensure that safety precautions are taken when dealing with a locked vehicle so you won’t end up making things worse for yourself down the line.
All in all, calling a trusted locksmith is definitely worth considering if you find yourself in this kind of situation.
When to Seek Professional Assistance
If you have a Chevy Impala and the key is stuck in the ignition, then it’s important to know when to seek professional assistance.
When it comes to getting your Chevy Impala key unstuck from the ignition, there are some alternative methods you can try first if you feel comfortable doing so. You could attempt wiggling or jiggling the key while turning it both clockwise and counter-clockwise until it loosens up enough for removal.
If these methods don’t work, however, seeking out professional help should be your next step. An expert technician will likely diagnose any underlying problems causing the issue which may require more advanced solutions such as replacing faulty components within the ignition system itself.
Enlisting professional help is always recommended when dealing with complex mechanical issues like this one since they have experience identifying what needs fixing and how best to go about resolving whatever problem exists.
So if attempting DIY methods fail, consulting a certified mechanic who can properly assess and address any potential causes of why your Chevy Impala key won’t come out of the ignition is essential for long-lasting success!
Prevention Tips to Avoid Future Problems
To avoid future problems with your car’s ignition system, I always recommend regular maintenance and inspection to keep everything running smoothly. With regular maintenance, any issues that may arise will be identified quickly and addressed before they have time to become bigger problems.
It’s also important to check for wear and tear on the internal components of the Chevy Impala’s ignition system periodically.
This includes things like checking for corrosion or loose connections between wires. If these minor details are overlooked, then more serious damage could occur from leaving them unchecked over time.
Regular inspections should identify any potential trouble spots so they can be fixed before they lead to costly repairs down the line.
In order to get the most out of your vehicle, it is essential that you follow a strict routine when it comes to its upkeep – whether it’s regularly inspecting parts or scheduling professional maintenance appointments – this all helps ensure a smoother driving experience and fewer surprises along the way.
Taking proper care of your vehicle now can help save you money later!
Conclusion
In conclusion, a stuck key in the ignition of your 2015 Chevy Impala can be a frustrating and time-consuming problem, but it’s not impossible to resolve. By trying simple methods you can often release the key without causing damage.
However, If you’re unable to release the key using these methods or if the key is damaged, it’s best to seek assistance from a certified mechanic or dealership for further diagnosis and repair.
By taking the right approach and using some patience, you can quickly and easily release a stuck key from the ignition of your 2015 Chevy Impala and get back on the road safely.
