1995 Oldsmobile Aurora Security No Start Fix

1995 OLDSMOBILE
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TKOAKES
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The key on my 95 Aurora will often trigger the security light to come on and not start, which means waiting several minutes before you can retry. If I carefully push the key in firmly as I attempt to crank the engine, it will usually start, but not always. I have cleaned the key as instructed in the owner's manual when this happens, but it doesn't seem to help. Is there a contact inside the ignition switch that also needs to be cleaned? If so, what would work best? I was thinking of using TV tuner cleaner (used on old style rotating tuner TVs), but was afraid it might do damage or remove lubricants from the tumblers.
Jan 20, 2007 at 2:34 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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With that kind of mileage,there might be alot of shaving build up in the lock assembly interfering with the pass-key reader. This is normal for keys to shed a little material over the years.Not sure if I would use a cleaner, might just be time for a new tumbler and keys
Jan 22, 2007 at 8:50 AM
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TKOAKES
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[quote:acff6efeae="2CarPro Jack"]With that kind of mileage,there might be alot of shaving build up in the lock assembly interfering with the pass-key reader. This is normal for keys to shed a little material over the years.Not sure if I would use a cleaner, might just be time for a new tumbler and keys[/quote:acff6efeae]

Thanks for the help. I was thinking the same way about the cleaner. I was afraid it might remove the lubricant in the tumblers. But I think I might try giving it a blast of canned air first to see it that helps. With the milage on the car and some other things I've already sunk money into, don't want to put more than I have to into it.
Jan 23, 2007 at 2:28 AM
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2CARPRO JACK
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I understand.
Jan 23, 2007 at 3:37 AM

Suggested Repair

Replace the ignition lock tumbler and keys. Key-material shavings can interfere with the pass-key reader. Avoid solvent cleaners that may strip tumbler lubricant; canned air is only a low-cost first try.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1995 Oldsmobile Aurora says the security light often comes on and the car will not start unless the key is pushed in firmly. Cleaning the key has not helped. The expert attributes the problem to key shavings in the lock interfering with the pass-key reader and recommends a new tumbler and keys rather than chemical cleaner. The owner may try canned air first to limit cost.

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