When you insert the key in the ignition,it won't turn and the steering wheel is locked also. This is happening every time we try to go somewhere for the past 4 days. We have to change the position of the steering wheel 5-6 times up&down and up&down before the key will turn and the wheel will unlock. WHAT is wrong? Can it be fixed INexpensively? Is it my steering column or a switch,fuse,locking mechanism??? Could my old man fix it? Please,please,please someone help. I have 4 kids and it is not good if we get stranded somewhere...
2007-01-29 11:11:31 · 12 answers · asked by Lulu 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
I just one with that same problem today.
There is a TSB # 23-23-00 for the problem.
The problem is in the lock cylinder and it needs to be replaced.
If you can get it to turn you can get it out, if not, you will have to replace the housing also.
The one i had today i got to turn by just flipping the key over and wiggling it while trying to turn it.
Send message if you need more info.
Good luck
2007-01-29 11:39:05 · answer #1 · answered by TonynNC 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
First thing you can try is a shot of WD40 in the switch where the key goes...just a small squirt...to oil things up. That will help if the mechanism is dried out.
If no real improvement, look at the key. Is it still chrome plated or is it somewhat brassy? Has it got sharp points or rounded points. The key may be worn out too far.
You then should get a new key cut. But not from a local store but from the Chrysler dealer. You will need the VIN # (which is located on the dash - drivers side and can be best viewed from outside looking in...it is a stamped metal plate. Copy that number down (if the car is not functioning) and go with proof of ownership for the vehicle to the parts department of the dealer. They will look up your key code and cut you a new key.
It will either work or the ignition switch needs replacing.
This is the procedure of a lock smith.
2007-01-29 11:26:52 · answer #2 · answered by ButwhatdoIno? 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
When you park the van, make sure that the wheels are straight. What is happening is if the wheels are turned and then the key is turned off, the steering wheel is putting pressure on the lock mechanism and preventing the key from turning. You could also take and turn the steering wheel a bit when you try to start the van, releasing the pressure.
2007-01-29 11:19:32 · answer #3 · answered by fire4511 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
There's two things you could do if it works. First, try wiggling the steering wheel left to right. Doing this will probably unlock the key cylinder to allow you to turn the key. Second, if that didn't work, check the position of the shifter. Make sure that it is fully in the park position. If it isn't, it will not allow you to turn the key position at all. If this was the problem, I'd have the shifter linkage checked.
2007-01-29 11:33:36 · answer #4 · answered by Floridagrown 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ok first if the guidance lock is on turn the wheel 0.5 way between the locking gadget (turn the wheel 0.5 a center meter left or good then try turning the biggest If the guidance lock isn't on the turn the wheel so its engaged and take a inspect a similar If that fails the it could be terrific to interchange the ignition it is trouble-free to do, 1st purchase a sparkling ignition, 2d take the plastic conceal from below the guidance wheel of, third discover the ignition barrel and unplug it (plastic black plug with a clip linked to the barrel) (insuring the battery is disconnected) , third unscrew the two/4 screws preserving the barrel on, 4rth plug new barrel in and guard it lower back in place, then try commencing the automobile (insuring the battery is re linked) it is going to artwork, if it dos replace the plastics, activity executed playstation you will ought to save the previous key for the doors and boot
2016-09-28 04:08:36 · answer #5 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have you tried jiggling the steering wheel back and forth as you turn the key? If you can spray some WD40 in the steering wheel casing near the ignition slot. Try this wile " jiggling" the steering wheel. Also try letting go of the steering wheel before you turn it off. These are cheep fixes. I hope one of them works for you
2007-01-29 11:28:09 · answer #6 · answered by Boston Mark 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sounds like the tumblers in the lock are sticking a little... try putting some graphite (can be bought at any auto parts store) in the cylinder. if it doesn't get better look for wear on the key. if the key is worn smooth you'll have a hard time.. worse case scenario change the lock cylinder. can be done at the dealer or by a locksmith. only because the new lock does not come assembled and one may have a problem if they never did it before... hope it helps. good luck
2007-01-29 11:19:01 · answer #7 · answered by rj_va 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Try straightening out the steering wheel before you shut the car off, especially if you park on a hill. My car used to do the same thing, that was the advice the tow truck guy gave me and it worked everytime.
2007-01-29 11:22:39 · answer #8 · answered by Laura C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
when you park the car, the steering wheel must be STRAIGHT, otherwise it will lock...it is an anti-theft device. Straighten your wheels when you park before you shut off the ignition.
2007-01-29 11:19:17 · answer #9 · answered by Jenny A 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
you need a new lock cylinder. they go bad quite frequently in the chryslers. change it while it still turns. much easier and cheaper to replace while it is giving problems than when it no longer turns.
2007-01-29 11:37:44 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋