Van will not start after replacing ignition lock cylinder

Tiny
JENFOST42
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 DODGE CARAVAN
  • 3.3L
  • V6
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 190,000 MILES
I lost my key and had to drill out the ignition lock cylinder and I replaced it with a Dorman ignition lock cylinder. But now I can't get the van to start! I also don't have the old tumblers because of them being damaged during the drilling out.
Friday, February 14th, 2020 AT 6:34 PM

11 Replies

Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Is the theft light remaining on? When you replaced the ignition switch did you use the same key or get a new one with the kit? Also, what was the part number of the ignition cylinder that you got so that I can look up what was included? Important thing is to know if the theft light stays on and does the engine even crank? Thanks

I am wondering if we have security issue now but we need to start here and then take next steps. Thanks
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Friday, February 14th, 2020 AT 6:48 PM
Tiny
JENFOST42
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  • 5 POSTS
The Dorman ignition lock cylinder part number is 924-703! Yes it blinking all the time! Used new keys because old key was lost at first. Also the tumblers were damaged in old ignition lock cylinder.
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Friday, February 14th, 2020 AT 7:20 PM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
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Okay. That is just the cylinder. Some kits include modules as well. If it is a new key, you need to have it programmed to the vehicle or it will not operate.

Unfortunately if you don't have a scan tool then you are going to have to have it towed to someone who does and they will need to program the key. You may be able to ask a dealer or shop to send someone out to the location of the van and have them do it there. However, you may want to find out if they would charge extra because it may be cheaper to tow it.
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Friday, February 14th, 2020 AT 7:48 PM
Tiny
JENFOST42
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  • 5 POSTS
I have a innovation 3020b will that work?
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Friday, February 14th, 2020 AT 7:50 PM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
From what I can tell, it does not have an option to program keys. So unless I am not looking at the correct one, it will not work.

Basically you will know if it works when you plug it in and on the menu you have an option to program keys. Most generic tools like this cannot do it. Sorry.
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Friday, February 14th, 2020 AT 8:01 PM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
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Another option is an automotive locksmith. Most can program the keys into the vehicle, you will need to show ID and proof of ownership, they are usually much cheaper than a dealer and will come to you.
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Friday, February 14th, 2020 AT 11:10 PM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
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Thanks Steve. That actually reminds me of something. Not only will they come to you but they can use aftermarket keys. Ask if they would use (or you can buy one and have them use it) from a company named Howard Keys. There is an issue right now with dealer inventory of SKIM keys that they will not program. They should have it clean soon but it will just cause issues if you have them do it and they think there is something else wrong and charge you to replace other parts when the key was the issue.

Howard Keys have been used with no issues reported. Thanks.
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Saturday, February 15th, 2020 AT 8:04 AM
Tiny
JENFOST42
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So you didn't tell me anything that I didn't already know! Thank you
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Saturday, February 15th, 2020 AT 1:24 PM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
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Sorry, but there is nothing that can be done without being able to program the keys and you need a key programmer for that.
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Saturday, February 15th, 2020 AT 7:04 PM
Tiny
JENFOST42
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No sir your wronh ! Waste of my time!
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Sunday, February 16th, 2020 AT 10:28 AM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Please tell us what we are missing. You drilled out the ignition cylinder and replaced it. Then used a new key and from what we can tell it was never programmed. Your theft light is flashing and the van won't start.

Based on the information you provided it looks like the key needs to be programmed and that can only be performed with a scan tool capable of performing that function.

Sorry if we are missing something. Thanks
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Sunday, February 16th, 2020 AT 6:37 PM

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