Ford Taurus X key won't turn to off position preventing car shutdown on Ford Taurus X

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Ford Taurus X owners report experiencing difficulties when the key won't turn to the off position, which prevents the car from shutting down. Common issues contributing to this problem include a binding steering column or lock, ignition switch malfunctions, or problems with the ignition key itself. Additionally, some owners have noted that the electrical portion of the ignition switch may fail, leading to intermittent or permanent loss of power to certain systems. Worn pins or wafers inside the ignition barrel can also hinder proper contact with the key, making it difficult to turn. In attempts to resolve the issue, some owners suggest gently wiggling the key or sliding it in and out to clear debris from the ignition cylinder. Others have reported that hitting the end of the key with force can sometimes help turn it when stuck. It is recommended to investigate these potential causes to effectively troubleshoot and resolve the key turning issue.

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