The key will not turn?

Tiny
PONTIACMANLOL
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
Tried shaking the wheel back and forth everything people would usually say but no luck. The steering wheel is locked, and the shift only moves with the release button.
Monday, February 27th, 2023 AT 5:08 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

Did you try using a small amount of penetrating fluid in the tumbler? Also, have you tried a different key? I've seen them simply wear out.

Take a look at this link. It explains doing what you have already tried but a few other ideas.

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

Let me know.

joe
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, February 27th, 2023 AT 8:33 PM
Tiny
PONTIACMANLOL
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
Thank you for your response and for sharing the link with me. Yes, I did try using some penetrating fluid in the tumbler, but unfortunately, it did not work. I also tried a different key, but it still wouldn't turn. I appreciate you suggesting these ideas though.

Thank you again for your help and advice.

Best regards
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Tuesday, February 28th, 2023 AT 12:37 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. At this point, the only thing I can say is the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced.

We have two things to deal with. First, to remove the cylinder, the key needs to be in the start position which isn't possible. (Battery disconnected). Since you can't get it to move and it is being replaced, we will need to force it.

Next, if you have the anti-theft (VTD/Vehicle theft deterrent), the new key will require programming of the VTD module to recognize the new transponder in the new key. They don't make this easy.

I Attached the directions for replacement below. Take a look through them and let me know if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Tuesday, February 28th, 2023 AT 7:48 PM
Tiny
PONTIACMANLOL
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
How would I go about forcing it to the on position?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Thursday, March 2nd, 2023 AT 9:19 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
You can drill out the tumbler or use a screwdriver to force it to turn.

Joe
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Thursday, March 2nd, 2023 AT 8:29 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links