Ignition Key Will Not Turn

[Steve340]

I had this issue earlier, then came here and read all of the posts.

Some said replace ( at 80 Bucks, not an option )
Some said use WD-40 ( does not make sense, since WD-40 is a water displacement spray )

So I went out and used Aerokroil, then ran the key in and out about 20 times, now it works like new.

For those not in Aviation, PB Blaster will work fine, since it is a penetrating oil. I would suggest even doing this before you have the problem.

I'm not saying this will work everytime, but I'll wager it works a lot of the time.


Steve


:banana:

 

[shootmymime]

your steering wheel, ignition and gear lever are all connected, sometimes it locks up (does with all cars)

so when your ignition doesn't turn, try rocking your steering wheel back and forth while turning the key. that will usually unlock and let your key turn.

 

[Brutus]

Don't know why but it always helps mine if I take the key out and turn it over. Never paid attention if I put the key in the same way or if it happens on both sides.

 

[shadow247]

Don't know why but it always helps mine if I take the key out and turn it over. Never paid attention if I put the key in the same way or if it happens on both sides.

Only one side of the key actually turns the cylinder over. One side gets worn out, so when you turn it over, you have a new side. Get a new key cut and you shouldn't have a problem like that. My uncle drives a GMC truck and has this issue every 60k miles or so. He starts his truck about 20 times a day, so you can imagine he wears a key out pretty quick. Once his key starts acting up he just gets a new key cut based on a new key that he doesn't use and doesn't have a problem.

I had a sticky lock on my Suzuki motorcycle that I was able to fix just by using some of my gun cleaner and lube. The key would get stuck in the off position, and I could never get the fork lock to work. I used some CLP all in one cleaner/lube/protectant, worked the key back and forth a dozen times, and it worked just fine after that.

 

[tluu]

issue is with a split wafer inside the ignition that is used for security measures. I have the same issue and a locksmith can normally fix it.

 

[RussToy]

I think shadow247 is on the right track! I had the same problem about 10-11 months ago...If I remember correctly, I think I had about 153,000 miles on my baby then. It started out very intermittently...like once every couple weeks. Then, it started happening more and more offten...very embarrassing...and always seemed to happen at the worst time!

A buddy of mine works in parts department for a Toyota dealership. He told me my key was worn out...I just needed to have him cut me a new key. Haven't had any problems since!

Give it a try, only thing you have to lose is $5 and a little time. Heck of a lot better than $80+ for a new ignition.

Good luck buddy...

 

[Ronin1082]

Could be the ignition cylinder. If that goes bad then the cylinder needs to be replaced obviously. Extremely common on Chrysler and GM. Chrysler you can tap the end and it'll turn for a little while longer. GM not so lucky. On ours, not too sure. Don't get many cylinders go bad that I can think of off the top of my head. Prolly is just the key. Something to ask my service manager.

 

[TXRick]

Sounds like your problem is solved, but my issue was with the shift lever not connecting properly. I just had to pull the cover and tighten up a bolt and the key has worked everytime since.