ignition key problem?

Hello, I have a `97 SC2. Lately, sometimes, when I turn off the car and come
back and try to start it the key just won`t turn. I do release the presure of
the locking steering wheel but it still won`t turn. I sit there like for 5
minutes trying and trying. Taking out the key and puttin it back in....trying
to turn it. Finally out of the blue it will turn and the car will start. I
have several keys to this car and have tried all of them when this problem
occurs. Same result. It might go days when it doesn`t happen and then all of a
sudden it does it again.
Car has 40k on it. Thanks for any info.
Dan.

 

Sounds like a lock cylinder. better replace it now, while you can still get
the key to turn at some point. If not, your looking at a job that will take
MUCH longer then should. I say this, because you need to turn the key to the
ACC position inorder to get it out. If the key wont turn you will have to
beat it out, maybe even drill it out. If all else false, you have to replace
the whole housing and lock cylinder.

hope that helps

Jeremiah

 

You've got that right! Having to drill out the stuck cylinder is definitely
a bit**.
Had to do that once on a Ford. Was stuck out in the boonies in the wee hours
of the morning when the ignition cylinder jammed. Luckily I had my tools
with me. I couldn't free or remove the jammed cylinder... so on to plan B.
Was able to hacksaw the 1/8" diameter pushrod between the ignition switch at
the foot of the column and the cylinder (later repaired it by soldering a
sleeve in place to hold it). Reached behind the column and pushed the rod by
hand to turn on the ignition and start the engine. Then the steering wheel
couldn't be replaced since the steering lock was a pawl that engaged the
steering wheel. I drove home with a vise-grip on the steering shaft. Not the
safest, but dire times often require unique solutions. I was lucky, at
least, that the steering lock was that way. Many cars have a locking pawl
that engages directly on the steering column shaft. That would have been a
real bear to bypass.
Oppie

 

my room mate had same problem with his Saturn, had to replace the key /lock
mechanism. He had it done at the dealer.
E

 

"uknewwho"

Thanks for the info. Will get the whole mess replaced.
Dan.