key will not turn

[Beam]

I have a 2001 PT Cruiser. When I got in my car to go to work Friday, Feb 7th, i inserted the key into the ignition swith and the key would not turn. It was like it was locked up. I've had the car for 2 1/2 years and it had never happened before. The key will not turn in either direction. I tried for about 15 minutes before my key broke off in the ignition. I removed the broken key with no problem and got my spare. It didnt work either. It is now Sunday, Feb 9th and i have not been able to start my Cruiser. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what the problem could be? The car has 34,000 miles on it so the warranty has expired.

[tpscruiser]

Have you tried turning the steering wheel in either direction while turning the key? If the steering lock is engaged it is sometime difficult to turn the key without moving the wheel and releasing the tension on the locking pin.
Good luck.

John & Terry
2002 Inferno Red Touring Edition

[Beam]

Yes, i have tried turning the steering wheel. It still does nto work.

[Jeff V]

First few things that come to mind, besides the "turn the wheel" suggestion:

1) Are you sure you're using the right key?
2) Is the car in park (if automatic), if so, try neutral.
3) Any chance somebody is playing a practical joke on you?
4) Try foot on the brake?
5) Are you sure you're in the right car?
6) How much have you had to drink?

[bobs turbo pt]

i was thinking it wasn't in park??

[Beam]

Yes I turned the steering wheel.
Yes I am using the right key.
Yes the car is in neutral.
yes I pressed the key release button.
Yes my feet where pressing the brake and the clutch.
And no I dont drink.

I'm not an idiot. I've been driving the car for almost 3 years and other cars for 21 years. I've had several people try to turn the key with no luck. If anyone has any useful advice as to what may be the problem I would be very greatful

[Jeff V]

Sorry, Jim, I didn't mean to imply you're an idiot, and the drinking comment was aimed at your name and to try to bring a chuckle to what must be an otherwise uneasy time for you.

Sometimes we all overlook the obvious, hence the neutral and key comments.

Again, my most humble apologies if I struck a nerve. I hope the next time you try the car it starts up like there was never anything wrong.

Only other suggestions I can think of is start with the user's manual and then call Chrysler if you don't get any clues there. Even if warranty is expired they hopefully will be helpful.

If you have the anti-theft chip in your key, maybe the chip isn't working, or the anti-theft communication device inside the ignition isn't working (hence the comment about practical jokes, in case someone decodified your ignition.)

[bobs turbo pt]

if it was me i would call a locksmith

[Beam]

jeff V,
how did you know my name was Jim?

[Jeff V]

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