key will not turn

[bobs turbo pt]

ah ok,

[relytgerg]

I have had a similar problem with my 3 1/2 year old MANUAL TRANSMISSION PT Cruiser. Occasionally, the ignition key will not turn to the on position. Usually, just banging the button next to the key fixes it. However, last Friday, nothing worked. I even removed the plastic from around the steering column and took a good look at, and played with, the mechanism.

NO, the steering wheel was not locked. You could turn it. In fact we turned it some to get it up on to the tow truck.
YES, the clutch and brake were depressed, though they don't need to be to turn the key (just to start the car).

I had it towed to a dealer. When the dealer took it off the tow truck they were turning the steering wheel to move it when the steering wheel hit the locked position. After that they were able to get the key to work.

I would be interested in feedback from any others who have experienced this problem. But for now my process is:

1) Bang on the button. If that doesn't work:
2) Turn the steering wheel (hard to do when the car isn't running) until the wheel hits a locked position and try again. If that doesn't work:
3) Get the cell phone out and call for help.

By the way, the button by the ignition key is only on the manual transmission models. It's designed to prevent you from removing the key while it's in the on position. The automatics do this via an interlock with the shifter.

Thanks.

Greg Tyler

[IRPT]

relytgerg, sorry I can't help with your problem, have not experienced that particular problem. Just wanted to welcome you to the forum. Lots of great people here as well and information and humor. Enjoy

[relytgerg]

Thanks for the welcome IRPT. I did do some more internet research and found a couple other cases of this happening. The most interesting one is at:

http://ptenthusiasts.org/PTForums/sh...=sour+ignition

I've decided to put my PT ignition key on one of those separable key rings. I did have a lot of weight (keys) on the same key ring.

We'll see what happens.

[Hooligan]

quote:Originally posted by relytgerg

Thanks for the welcome IRPT. I did do some more internet research and found a couple other cases of this happening. The most interesting one is at:

http://ptenthusiasts.org/PTForums/sh...=sour+ignition

I've decided to put my PT ignition key on one of those separable key rings. I did have a lot of weight (keys) on the same key ring.

We'll see what happens.

I have had a neighbor tell me about having to many keys on a keyring causing the problem with the ignition switch. Having driven since I was 12 (am now 64), I had never heard of the before. Even working in a GM/DC parts department and talking with service techs. Maybe there is something to it after all !!!!

[streetrods]

Now I'm just an old mechanic and car nut guy ""BUT I LUBRICATE"" every lock on all vehicles, lawn mower, house, garage, beer cooler, ect. once a year.... with powdered graphite, you can buy it at any auto parts place or hardware store... Never have I had a lock problem....