When your car won't start, it's easy to panic. Before you call a tow truck, try these troubleshooting steps to see if it's a simple key or ignition issue.

## 1. The Steering Wheel Lock
This is the #1 reason people call us!
* **Symptom:** The key won't turn at all. The steering wheel feels rock hard.
* **Fix:** Try to turn the steering wheel gently to the left or right *while* turning the key. You are trying to relieve the pressure on the locking mechanism.

## 2. The Gear Shift
* **Symptom:** The key won't turn or won't come out.
* **Fix:** Make sure the car is fully in "Park" (P). Sometimes the shifter doesn't click all the way in. Jiggle the shifter and try again.

## 3. Worn Key
* **Symptom:** You have to wiggle the key to get it to turn.
* **Cause:** The metal key blade has worn down over time and no longer aligns the pins perfectly.
* **Fix:** **Do not keep forcing it!** You could snap the key off in the ignition. Call us to cut a fresh code-cut key (not a duplicate of the worn one).

## 4. Dead Battery (Fob)
* **Symptom:** Push-to-start button doesn't work.
* **Fix:** Hold the fob directly against the start button and press it. Most cars have an emergency backup coil for this exact scenario.

## 5. Ignition Failure
* **Symptom:** The key goes in but feels loose, or nothing happens when you turn it (and the battery is fine).
* **Fix:** The ignition cylinder itself may need to be rebuilt or replaced. We can often do this on-site.

**Still stuck? Call Sprouse's Locksmith at 484-546-5132. We can diagnose if it's a key issue or a car issue.**