Ignition key

REXOWENS

MEMBER
2001 TOYOTA CAMRY SOLARA
3.0L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
152,000 MILES

I stopped my car put it into park and turned the key to lock and pulled the key out. As soon as I pulled the key out it started beeping. To turn off the beeping I pressed the lock/unlock buttons numerous times and the beeping stopped. I did notice then that the steering wheel does not lock as before. Then when I tried to restart the engine I can put the key into the ignition but it will not turn; not even a tiny bit. It is acting as if the steering wheel is locked but strangely it is not. I got my spare key out and it still will not turn in the ignition.

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,536 POSTS

Hello,

You have an ignition switch and tumbler that needs to be replaced. You can take the lock to a locksmith and they will make the key work once the unit has been removed. Here are some guides to help you get the job done.

Please let us know what happens.

Cheers, Ken

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Tuesday, July 25th, 2017 AT 2:11 PM

REXOWENS

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Another question pertaining to my problem. My 2001 Toyota Camry Solara is the model with the engine immobiliser system. Will this make this procedure different? I would hate to go to the trouble of getting a new switch, tumbler from the locksmith and find out it won't work because my key which has a transponder chip won't enable the computer and I won't be able to start the car. I ask because then I guess I have to take it to the Toyota dealership and that will cost a pretty penny. Thanks again in advance.

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Wednesday, July 26th, 2017 AT 7:00 AM

KEN L