key wont turn - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

IzzyBond · 02-03-2012, 01:41 PM

The key won't turn. The steering wheel is locked. I went to get my state done today. Handed over my keys which also had my geo tracker key on it too. When I got out the steering wheel was not locked. Now it is I've turned it either which way while trying to turn the key. I'm thinking the guy most have smashed my geo key in first befor going ooops. Then got me. No I've never had it stuck like this. Then again I don't have my sterring wheel locked neither. Also this 91 cam has that damned push button to remove key, donno why it has it because this is a bloody automatic. I'm a bit upset at the moment . Any surgestion while I'm stuck. Oh also I'm faceing slight down hill.

Musikmann · 02-03-2012, 06:45 PM

Sounds like the cylinder locking mechanism has gone out or might be dirty. Mine acts up from time to time. I'm just living with mine since it happens so infrequently. And I agree that the button is a pain. Sometimes I can remove the key without pressing that. Other times I can have the key out but still hear the chime telling me to remove the key.

IzzyBond · 02-03-2012, 10:48 PM

I wonder if there is a way to have that button removed. It's annoying and doesn't help me anyway, also i think it might be part of the problem. *shrug*
I got the thing started, I sat there wiggling it for a good half hour. finally allowed me to start. then I turned it off and messed if it some more... it's very very picky how I turn the key, have to do it just right. very annoying.

If it's the button I need to know if I can remove it.

Bet i'd be better off replacing it all and find one with out a button?

echandler · 02-03-2012, 10:56 PM

have you tried squirting wd 40 or something in it?

Liledgy · 02-04-2012, 08:32 AM

I've had good luck by slightly pulling key out while turning it to the on position. It sounds kinda ridiculous because we're so used to pushing key in and turning but it works very well on my 90.

Mike Gerber · 02-04-2012, 01:44 PM

Do you have the 4 digit key code for the car? If so, take that to your Toyota dealer with proof of ownership and have them make you a new key from the original code. Many times this solves the problem you are experiencing. If you don't have the key code, try the dealership anyway. Depending on how far back the Toyota database at the dealership goes, they may be able to pull up your key code from the vin. Again, bring along proof of ownership.

Mike

white90dx · 02-06-2012, 11:40 AM

You may also want to check the gear shift position, and maybe try it in neutral instead of park.

Of course, when my keys get got stuck in the ignition, it was because I forgot I was still in drive (yeah, I drive manuals most of the time...).

-Charlie

PS. This is why I'm glad I don't live in an inspection state - though getting some of the scary cars on the road around here off might be nice...

'88 All-Trac · 02-06-2012, 12:29 PM

It's entirely possible he jammed the Tracker key in... I, too, own a Camry (two, actually) and a Geo Tracker. I once made the mistake of trying to put the Geo key into my ignition- it was dark and the keys are similar in all regards. If he forced the Geo key into the cylinder it may have damaged it... I see you've already tried jiggling the wheel while turning the key, so I've not got any advice that might help- just backing you up that the guy possibly damaged it.

Edit: Off topic: You got any pics of your Tracker? I'll trade ya pic for pic.

Musikmann · 02-06-2012, 03:49 PM

I missed the bit about the Geo key on the same key ring earlier. The other suggestions that the inspector did you in seem quite likely.

As far as finding a steering column that fits without a button good luck since they probably all were equipped that way.

celica-fiend · 02-07-2012, 07:57 PM

Ignition cylinder quite possibly worn.. My mom had one of these camrys when they were new.. after driving it for 5 or 6 years the cylinder was worn specifically to how she turned the key.. and she never had a problem.. but anyone else, my poor teenage self, her mechanic, whoever.. could almost never get that key to turn..

Brett

IzzyBond · 02-26-2012, 11:12 PM

Thanks ya'll. lol I have to turn just so now, most of the time I can just insert and turn over. I reall do think that dude jammed the geo key in or tried to, didn't have any problems before hand.

My geo tracker is younger than the 91 Cam, it's a 97 4x4 (option to turn in the 4x4 mode but you have to do so manual) green.

With my job I'm use to having cars that you can't just put key in and turn. I've learned fasted with how to get around key problems, it's just annorying. Even more so if it's your car and you zombie your way out to start it up.

Anyways thank ya'll for the info. I'm gonna to leave it be as it turns good enough for me now.

'88 All-Trac · 02-26-2012, 11:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IzzyBond

My geo tracker is younger than the 91 Cam, it's a 97 4x4 (option to turn in the 4x4 mode but you have to do so manual) green.

Mine's manual t-case shift and manual hubs. Far more reliable than those silly auto-locking hubs. Been there, done that. I've got the fragged rings.

Tinny, soft top, or 4dr?

Sorry to hijack. It's just awesome to meet a fellow Tracker/Camry owner.