Ignition Lock Problem

[JerryB]

Parked my '06 XLT on Friday night.

Went to start it Saturday night and the key seemed to be hard to put into the lock. Once in the lock, the key will not turn.

Checked that the steering lock was in a 'neutral' position and all other items I can think of. Finally gave up. I did squirt a small amount of lock lube into the key opening.

Right now, the steering wheel is locked (but moves the small amount as normal), the shifter is in park, but the key refuses to turn.

BTW, I also tried the second key with the same result. Neither key appears to be worn.

Any suggestions?

 

[BrianDye]

Hmmm, I haven't heard of this before, but I would tear the steering column off and check on the wheel lock. Seems like it might not be locking the wheel, but still locking the key.

 

[JerryB]

Hmmm, I haven't heard of this before, but I would tear the steering column off and check on the wheel lock. Seems like it might not be locking the wheel, but still locking the key.

Thanks for the reply.

The preliminary diagnosis is that the key tumbler assembly (which is a separate part from the electrical ignition switch) is defective. Requires opening the column for removal and replacement (fairly simple). The complication is in either rekeying the replacement tumbler assembly to work with the original keys or cutting new keys for the replacement. My Expy only has a single keyed door lock which would also need rekeying, so not certain which route we will take.

Interesting side light is that we had to disconnect the transmission shifter cable in order to get it out of "park" so we could put it on a rollback. Steering was also locked, but fortunately the wheels were near enough straight ahead to allow it to be pulled onto a rollback truck. We are way out in the country, so no locksmith and/or mechanic wanted to make what would wind up being at least two trips over the hill. That's why I have AAA towing service, and our local AAA guys are great!

The locksmiths also did not want to be responsible for disassembling the steering column, so my mechanic will do the removal and replacement.