Key not working.

[spd_dmn]

Hey,

Have a problem I NEED to fix asap. My key isn't turning in the ignition. Have not had any problems untill this morning. I took it to get washed then when I went to leave the key didn't turn. It did work twice after it was washed, so I don't think it was anything to do with that. After 20min of fiddling it turned and I was able to get home but as soon as I got home it wouldn't work again.

My dad has lost the spare key that I gave to him, so we can't check if it's just the key or the ignition barrel. We're gnna keep looking, hopefully find it.

Is this more likely to be the key or the ignition barrel? Who would I go to to fix something like this? Any help GREATLY appreciated.

Thanks, John.

[spd_dmn]

Found the spare! But it's not working either. Does this mean it's the ignition barrel? Can someone tell me what I should do? Is this a mechanics thing or autoelec. Am I looking at an expensive job? Will I have to replace the keys aswell? Really need the car by monday as I use it for work, and there's no public transport where I'm working atm.

[davway]

wobble the steering wheel as you try turning the key.
steering lock might be activated.

[accentstencil]

I reckon it is the barrel, it is a very common problem.

[Eliminator]

yeah give the steerning wheel a rattle, if the steering lock is 100% & engaged cars will do that, other wise it sounds like your up for a new barrel, better to get it done now than later when it gets even worse.

[spd_dmn]

Thought it might have been the steering lock, and did wobble and shake it alot, but just couldn't get it to work. I've called a locksmith and they're coming out to replace the barrel. $250 later But at least I won't have to worry about it nemore.

[accentstencil]

Thought it might have been the steering lock, and did wobble and shake it alot, but just couldn't get it to work. I've called a locksmith and they're coming out to replace the barrel. $250 later But at least I won't have to worry about it nemore.

That's about $200 for 15 minutes work plus travelling time , but at least it will be fixed.

[spd_dmn]

Well I called around and the prices I was getting for the barrel were between $80-$120. But as you said, at least it'll be fixed And I dun wanna be working in the car in this heat, especially coz it's parked in the sun with the windows up coz no electrics

[OZ-18-OI]

yeah replace the barrel, see how it is, if not, got see a mechanic

[spd_dmn]

Barrel replaced, all fixed now. Just gotta get the keys re-cut on advice. But that'll only be bout $25 a key. My baby is going again

[Fekason]

Hi,

I know that I am too late, but I have heard of VS ignition barrels sticking. Some people have sprayed MD40 or similar into the key hole, and then wriggled the key. Sometimes takes a few goes, but I know of one instance where the barrel is still going strong about five years after using this trick to get it going.

Cheers.