Ignition Key Won't Turn?

S2STEVE

MEMBER
2003 GMC YUKON
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
72,500 MILES

My ignition key will not turn to ON or ACC - steering wheel is not locked, red security system idiot is flashing (even though I used remote immediately prior to trying to start). Catch-22: instructions to change cylinder (if things get that far) indicate I have to turn key to change cylinder.

3 Replies

DRSPEED2

MEMBER
1 POST

I had the same issue, the problem was the barrel of the ignition key. To be able to move it to the ON position and start the car and remove the barrel I used a small screwdriver and inserted it underneath the key barrel. With some wiggling it turned. In order to get to the bottom of the key barrel you will need to remove the plastic cover on tom and under the assembly.

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Monday, February 14th, 2011 AT 2:20 AM

S2STEVE

MEMBER
1 POST

Cannot access the bottom of the cylinder?

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Friday, September 16th, 2022 AT 1:14 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,513 POSTS

Here is how the job is done so you can change out the ignition key lock tumbler. Check out the images (below). Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.

Images (Click to make bigger)