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Ignition key not working unless I jiggle it....

Posted: Mon Apr 27, 2009 6:53 pm
by InTheForest
When I insert the key for the ignition, it won't click over to the start position untless I jiggle it and hold my tounge just right. Not sure if the key is getting worn out or if it is the whole column. Any ideas?

Cheers

Re: Ignition key not working unless I jiggle it....

Posted: Mon Apr 27, 2009 8:40 pm
by Green1
Either the key, or the lock cylinder... any problems at all with the key in any other lock? (3 doors and tailgate?)
If none in the other locks I'd suspect the cylinder, if it sticks in some of the others I'd suspect the key.

Either way though, I'm not sure of a good solution if you want the keys to match for the ignition and doors...

Re: Ignition key not working unless I jiggle it....

Posted: Tue Apr 28, 2009 7:07 am
by Meanman
like Green1 said....does it work in any other cyllinder? try some wd40 sprayed into the cyllinder to free up the tumbler.

Re: Ignition key not working unless I jiggle it....

Posted: Tue Apr 28, 2009 4:07 pm
by TardisDeli
Various Thoughts:

Try using ONLY the key, not a key chain full of heavy bits?

Turn the key the other way up (paint a blob of felt pen on the end so you know which way is up, mine occasionally likes to be fussy with just ONE of my key copies -- others OK).

Is the steering wheel locked, ie when you parked did you leave the steering wheel turned sharply, then you have to jiggle the steering wheel?

You are in Park? Try shifting into neutral and see if works better (there is a neutral safety feature). Presuming you're automatic, I am not familliar with manual delii.

Any problem with headlights or Daytime Running Lights (not the same wires, but if you've recently has issues with wiring in the steering column maybe something got joggled).

Only in hot weather (something metal expanding and not contacting?)?

Worst case, get a separate ignition switch wired to bypass the igniton switch, and celebrate your new security system.

Happy to help with further troubleshooting.

Cheers, Christine.

Re: Ignition key not working unless I jiggle it....

Posted: Tue Apr 28, 2009 6:19 pm
by InTheForest
Thanks everyone for the ideas. To answer some of the questions, the key works in all other tumblers/locks and I its only with the ignition that I was having the trouble. Noel shot some WD40 in there while I was picking up some breaks and its working alittle better right now but not great still. I am going to try a copy I got made about a year ago as soon as I can find it.... if I was a key, where would I be?

Thanks again all