Ignition Key Sticks

Discussion in 'General Motoring' started by JR, Jan 8, 2006.

  1. JR

    JR Guest

    I have a 1995 Dodge Intrepid. On cooler days, on short trips, the key
    sticks in the ignition. I have to turn the key back and forth, usually
    for several minutes, until it finally rotates far enough so that I can
    remove it. Any ideas?
     
    JR, Jan 8, 2006
    #1
  2. Buy a spray can of silicone lubricant. Pick a good brand; 3M and CRC are
    reliable; others may use propellants that can damage plastic. Use the
    plastic straw that comes with the can to squirt some silicone into the
    ignition lock. Operate the key through the full range of movement, squirt
    in a little more silicone, and repeat. If this frees up the mechanism,
    then you're all set. If not, replace the ignition lock NOW before it fails
    completely and strands you. (Use the rest of the can of silicone to hit
    the rest of the sliding/turning/moving parts in and around the car.
    Seatbelt catches, heater controls, gas door, etc. You'll be amazed how
    many squeaks and rattles disappear.)
     
    Daniel J. Stern, Jan 9, 2006
    #2
  3. JR

    maxpower Guest

    The wafers in the lock cylinder are bad, you can spray all you want but
    sooner or later it is going to not let you turn the key at all. Have the key
    cylinder rebuilt.

    Glenn Beasley
    Chrysler Tech
     
    maxpower, Jan 9, 2006
    #3
  4. JR

    philthy Guest

    the switch behind it is going bad copmmon failure
     
    philthy, Jan 15, 2006
    #4
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