Issue with turning the key - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

edfernandez2 · 07-18-2008, 09:34 PM

I went to turn the car on but the key will not turn at all as if it were locked, what could cause that?

***MR2Jedi*** · 07-19-2008, 12:12 AM

Sometimes you have to jiggle the steering wheel to loosen the lock from binding. If it won't turn after that, the lock/ignition may need to be replaced. You can also try some graphite powder in it to loosen it up.

edfernandez2 · 07-19-2008, 07:08 PM

I'll have to contact toyota for that, do you know if they can re-calibrate the cylinder to match my existing keys?

Ghostyman · 07-20-2008, 12:45 AM

The steering wheel might be locked. Move it until there is some slack and then try again.

Otherwise, Toyota can cut you new keys for your car based on your VIN. I wouldn't try to do anything with the lock cylinder unless you are positive that is the problem.

edfernandez2 · 07-20-2008, 01:09 AM

I tried the steering wheel with no luck, I even tried the other keyset. Good idea about the keys I'll try that.

tHa kNiGHt FaLL · 07-20-2008, 10:28 AM

i wouldn't be considering the lock cylinder... there is a reed that slides into the steering column to lock it.

you need to get some slack in the wheel.... shake it back and forth, end to end while jiggling the keys in the cylinder.

edfernandez2 · 07-20-2008, 01:07 PM

The wheel was unlocked before the key cylinder locked up, I accidentally locked the steering wheel in the process.