Ignition Cylinder Broken

[Sashamil]

Hi there,

I have finally run into first major problem with my 4Runner after 290k km and this one has really made me sweat:redbrick:. Hopefully somebody can help me here

Looks like the tumblers have completely worn out and I cant even put my key into ACC, to take out the cylinder and take it to locksmith to repair it. I had my car at locksmith whole day today, but he tried everything and couldnt take the cylinder out. Now I am out $100 for labour, but no solution. At the same time steering whell is locked, so I cant really maneuver it anywhere. I can only insert the key, but it will not turn at all.

Anybody had any suggestions. At this point I am thinking of drilling the lock, but not sure if this is recommended..

Please help:thanks:

 

[nissanh]

There are two bolts on the top that holds the ignition key unit to the steering wheel. That bolt, however has no grip or hexagonal shape to use a tool. But you can remove it by using a center punch and a hammer. Make a hole from a drill or make a solid spot by the center punch and use the hammer to lose the bolts. I did this to my corolla and Hilux and it works.

Buy a used complete ignition switch with a key. If you want a complete ignition switch and a key, let me know.

 

[Sashamil]

I finally got my 4Runner back at home, and out $150. I will give that a shoot tomorrow. Also got some grinding tools, hopefully something will work.

Thank you

 

[05SVRACER]

Before you do any of that, I would take a trip down to the dealer and have them cut a key off the Vin (Key Code if you have it already) They will need proof of ownership. I do this once a year anyway, costs under $10 and will ensure you never have problems with the lock cylinder. The new key just may work. The tumblers inside the lock cylinder get worn because your key gets worn. Also, as a future note. Don't have a ton of junk on your key ring. Just wears down the cylinder from the extra weight. Little tip I learned from working at a dealer

 

[Harleydoc]

I had new key cut for the 93 I just for the girl said you got to Jim it this way and that way to get it to turn. I took one look at key and it was almost flat 25
Bucks later and fresh key cut from the bin and she works like new.

 

[jreask]

i had new key cut for the 93 i just for the girl said you got to jim it this way and that way to get it to turn. I took one look at key and it was almost flat 25
bucks later and fresh key cut from the bin and she works like new.

huh?

 

[MyHigh]

Certainly try what 05svracer mentioned, getting a code cut key is an easy cheap fix. However if that does not work your best bet would be to just drill the cylinder, start small and work bigger till the wafers and springs pop out, at which point you can remove the inner of the two part ignition and replace with a junk yard find. It's to bad the locksmith took you for a ride, it's not a well controlled profession and are lots of BAD people out there that will be more then happy to take your money for shotty work. Before you install the new one have a different locksmith rekey to match your existing keys, and tell them to leave out the split wafers in the 2-5-8 spot if I remember correctly.
Good luck!!