StartingUrgency: Monitor
Key is stiff to turn or gets stuck in the ignition: causes and the faults that trigger it
1 documented fault causes it in 1 car:
- Low severity: Premature wear of the ignition lock · Jeep Grand Cherokee WK
What it means
The key turns with difficulty in the ignition lock, catches or gets stuck when you try to start the car or remove it. It is usually caused by wear on the lock cylinder or on the key itself, and can be made worse by heavily loaded key rings.
General explanation from MotorFiable. How it shows up in each engine, with sources, is in the list of faults.
What to do now
Monitor
Do not force the key, to avoid breaking it inside. Try the spare key and ask a garage to check the lock cylinder; it is a part that can be replaced.
Faults that cause it
Suspension, brake, electronics and other faults on specific cars, from most to least important.
Source for the symptom in the Jeep Grand Cherokee WK[1]
Other symptoms: starting
Has this happened to you? Tell us which fault it was, at how many kilometres and how much you paid: it helps other owners know what to expect. Report your fault.
Sources
Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.
- 1.Grand Cherokee III: Gebrauchtwagen-TestAUTO BILD · Motoring press · published 24 June 2016 · consulted 5 October 2026 · in German