When you discover that your car has been keyed, it’s a very upsetting moment. The damage is bad enough, but knowing that someone has done this deliberately adds to the feeling of guilt and resentment.
The first thing you need to do is find a locksmith. They can remove the key from your vehicle and replace it with a new one. They can also fix the ignition hole, if needed, before you can insert a new key and start your vehicle.
If the key won’t come out easily, you can use the following methods:
Jiggling it - This can help loosen the grip of springs and pins inside the ignition cylinder. This can then allow you to pull the key out of the ignition.
Jiggle it counterclockwise - This can also help unlock the lock in the ignition, allowing you to remove the key.
Using another key - If you have a spare key, try using it to turn the ignition. This can help unlock the ignition and get you back on the road.
You can also try removing and replacing the battery terminals, as this will reset the system and allow you to remove the key from the ignition.
However, this is a last resort, so you may have to do it more than once.
If you have comprehensive insurance, your insurance company will cover the cost of repairs for this type of damage. They will either directly pay the mechanic or send you a check for the repair and you will pick it up when it’s done.