1998 Chrysler Town & Country Key Won't Turn Fix

1998 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY

SHORTTIMER

MEMBER
1 POST

This morning, key won't turn in ignition. Steering wheel isn't locked (in fact, it won't lock, even after turning 45+ degrees in either direction).
I have removed column covers to expose tumbler but do not know how to proceed with removal, if that is in fact what is needed. Any assistance will be greatly appreciated.

Jan 8, 2007 at 3:03 AM

KASEKENNY

✓Experienced Mechanic
18,907 POSTS

Sounds like you may have a shift interlock issue.

Here is a guide that will help with this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ignition-switch-wont-turn-stuck

However, below is the process from the manual on how to replace the ignition as you requested.

If the wheel will turn then it sounds like the steering lock is unlocked which means the ignition is most likely broken so your approach is most likely correct.

I am attaching the entire process below on how to replace the ignition. Please run through this and let us know what questions you have.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Aug 11, 2021 at 11:50 AM

Suggested Repair

Check for a shift interlock problem first. If the steering wheel turns freely and will not lock, the steering lock is unlocked and the ignition is likely broken; replace the ignition using the service procedure.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1998 Chrysler Town & Country reports that the key will not turn in the ignition. The steering wheel is not locked and will not lock after being turned, and the column covers have been removed to expose the tumbler. The expert suggests a possible shift interlock issue and says that, because the wheel turns freely, the ignition is most likely broken and replacement is the appropriate approach, offering a guide and the manual procedure.

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1998 Chrysler Town & Country Key Won't Turn Fix

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