I can't turn on the ignition?

SAMANTHAGRIER

MEMBER
2000 FORD MUSTANG
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
84,000 MILES

My car doesn't start--actually is STUCK in the key slot--about once in every fifty times I go to start the car. Its not that I can't turn on the ignition it is that I can't turn the key in order to turn on the ignition. If I bounce the car from the back bumper (advice given by Firestone) the car will start and be good for a few months and then never knowing when it will get STUCK again. So far this is working but I worry one day it wont. What can it be and how do I fix it?

Samantha

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

Based on your description, I have to question if the vehicle is fully in park when you leave it. Bouncing the vehicle from the rear bumper wouldn't do anything to unlock the ignition switch. Pay attention next time this happens. See if pushing the shift lever further into park makes any difference.

Next, if that doesn't change things, I would think the tumbler (ignition lock cylinder) is going bad.

Take a look through this link. You may find it helpful

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

If you find the lock cylinder is bad, I attached the directions below for its removal and replacement.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

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