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Anonymous
Anonymous Posted on Jun 12, 2009
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Ignition key doesn't always turn

Acts like the tumbles in the ignition have moved so key doesn't work. Can you replace the ignition switch without pulling the steering column?

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  • Posted on Jun 12, 2009
Anonymous
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Removal & Installation

Without Air Bag
See Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4

  1. Remove the turn signal switch.
  2. Insert the key in the lock cylinder and turn it to the ON position.



ignition key doesn't always turn - 0900c152800a9f7f.jpg enlarge_icon.gif Fig. Fig. 1: Using a pair of needle nose pliers, remove the key warning buzzer switch and contacts from the steering column
  1. Remove the key warning buzzer switch and contacts AS AN ASSEMBLY using needle-nosed pliers, or a paper clip with a 90&dignition key doesn't always turn - 0900c152800a9f80.jpgi>



0900c152800a9f80.jpg enlarge_icon.gifenlarge_tooltip.gif Fig. Fig. 2: Lock cylinder retaining screw
Some steering columns may have a retaining screw ignition key doesn't always turn - 0900c152800a9f81.jpginder in the column. When servicing this type, simply remove the retaining screw and remove the lock cylinder.


0900c152800a9f81.jpg enlarge_iconignition key doesn't always turn - 0900c152800a9f82.jpg><span><img loading= Fig. Fig. 3: Using a small thin bladed tool, press in the ignition lock clinder retaining tab ...


0900c152800a9f82.jpgenlarge_icon.gifenlarge_tooltip.gif Fig. Fig. 4: ... then pull out the lock cylinder from the steering column
  1. With the ignition switch still in the ON position, insert a thin screwdriver into the slot adjacent to the switch attaching screw boss (right-hand slot). Depress the spring latch located at the bottom of the slot to release the lock cylinder.
  2. Remove the lock cylinder.

To install:
  1. To install the lock cylinder, turn the key to the LOCK position. Insert the lock cylinder in to the housing far enough to contact the drive tang. Force it inward and move the ignition switch actuator rod up and down to align the components. When the components align, the cylinder will move inward and the spring-loaded retainer will snap into place locking the lock cylinder in the housing.

If the lock cylinder is retained by a screw, tighten the screw to 40 inch lbs. (5 Nm).
  1. Install the key warning buzzer switch.
  2. Follow the ignition switch installation procedures to adjust the ignition switch.
  3. Install the turn signal switch.

With Air Bag
Please refer to the ignition switch removal and installation procedure.

Anonymous

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  • Master 334 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 12, 2009
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I would try shooting some silicone lubricating spray (no wd40) in there. This has worked for me several times

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Related Questions:

0helpful
1answer

Key wont turn or will not even move
I went through that, with my 2002 Ford Focus. My favorite local parts & service center, replaced the ignition switch tumbles or the whole thing. Then I had to have the chip key reprogrammed. The fix may depend on the year, make, & model of your vehicle. I hope the two videos will be helpful. http://youtu.be/MMR-a2n05gc
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Dec 12, 2014 • Cars & Trucks
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How do nyou replace the key tumbler on a 1992 jeep cherokee
this is covered in the FSM. best is to ask a lock smith, (no kidding)
it is also cover at all 3 top online fsm sites (vitrual fsm)
at alldata.com
mitchells.
and chiltions online.

the tumbler just dont fall out, it has protections from thieves (weak)
most cars, you must remove the key assembly
the pull the tumble pin, hidden and blocked by the mounted assembly.
those are generic words.
the steps can vary if car has steering wheel, vert adjustment option.
here is a non Air bag quote

Without Air Bag The ignition switch is located on the lower part of the steering column.
  1. Place the ignition in the LOCK position.
86748g34.gif Ignition/dimmer switch assembly
  1. Remove any components necessary to access the switch.
  2. Remove the two switch mounting screws.
  3. Disconnect the switch from the rod.
  4. Disconnect the wiring and remove the switch.
To install:
86748g35.gif

  1. On non-tilt columns:
    1. Move the ignition switch slider to the OFF unlocked position (move the slider all the way down, then back two clicks). The remote rod hole in the ignition switch slider should now be centered.
    2. Insert the remote rod in the ignition switch slider hole and install the ignition switch on the steering column. Tighten the attaching screws to 35 inch lbs. (4 Nm).
  2. On tilt columns:
    1. Insert the ignition key in the lock cylinder and turn the cylinder to the OFF unlocked position.
    2. Move the ignition switch downward to eliminate any slack and tighten the attaching screws to 35 inch lbs. (4 Nm).
  3. Install any components removed for switch access.
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Dec 12, 2013 • 1992 Jeep Cherokee Limited
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Why would turning the steering wheel while cranking engine gets my car to start?
The ignition switch in the column most likely has a break in it. So when you move the steering wheel, it moves the wire so it completes the connection when you turn the key. Have the ignition switch replaced.
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Key will not turn in the ignition in an 98 cutless oldsmobile. What can I do?
try moving the steering wheel back and forth while your try and turn the key, if that doesn't work, your going to have to replace the ignition switch
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Jul 25, 2011 • Oldsmobile Cutlass Cars & Trucks
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My steering wheel locks up and my key is a little worn and my boyfriend can never get it started whats the unlock method i have heard so many i always pull back all yhe way the go forward and it starts...
Yes, it could definitely be the worn out key, and most likely is. Your steering wheel locks whenever the wheel is turned without the ignition being switched on. You should still be able to move the wheel a little bit in one direction. Turn the wheel slightly in that direction to alleviate the pressure on the locking pin and in doing so, the ignition switch. That should make it a little easier to find that "sweet spot" where your key will work to turn the ignition. And definitely get a new key made. Hope this helps a little.
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May 01, 2011 • 1992 Chevrolet C2500
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I placed the key in the keyhole but it wouldn't move, and is a bit stubborn. I t couldn't turn on the key..?
if your talking about the ignition then the tumblers in the ignition key switch are probably worn out and it needs replacing as you say it gets stubborn.or the key that you use is so worn that it doesn`t move the tumblers far enough to allow the key to turn,if you have a second key then try it as it may work.if you have a key chain with alot on it the weight can wear the tumblers out.
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Apr 21, 2011 • Toyota FJ Cruiser Cars & Trucks
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When I open the drivers side door without a key in the ignition the bell dings. I have a 2000 ford excursion limited.
try wiggling the ignition switch and see if it stops if it does it is the key in the ignition warning switch persoally i wouldn't worry about it if it is if it does you will have to replace it and ign tumble most likley
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Mar 20, 2011 • 2000 Ford Excursion
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How do you remove an ignition switch from a ford bronco, 1986, full size
I would check to see if there is a little hole in the tumble next to the key. If so then turn the ignition to accessory and put a paper clip or something that will fit in the hole. Push the pin into the hole and the tumble should move a little more and then just pull it out.
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Feb 22, 2011 • 1986 Ford Bronco
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My ignition key wont turn. is it just a bad cylinder or the switch too?
The switch/cylinder mechanisms are usually two separate parts. You should be able to get a new new key cylinder without the switch. Beware you would have different keys for the ignition/doors unless you had the re-keyed.
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Mar 28, 2010 • 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee
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My key and spare key are not turning in my ignition. what is the problem? it is just stuck. the key isnt but it wont turn.
sounds to me like the tumbles in the ignition switch are worn out. the easy fix is to replace the ignition switch. you should be able to get a replacement at any auto parts store. good luck please rate this
Read full answer
Feb 23, 2010 • 1994 Honda Accord
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