Ignition switch key will not turn

Maintenance/Repairs
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1

2005 dodge neon. This was a problem a few months ago. The cable going from ignition to shifter was the problem. I removed the cable at the ignition, and it worked perfect. Till today.

Again, the key will not move either way. Is it the ignition this time? is it something else?

The starter sol has been going bad I assume for a while. once in a great while I have to lightly tap on the solonoid to get it to turn over. i assume not related. I have been planning to soon take off and get tested at auto zone.

i started a new topic because the old one i could not find

2

Last time you said it won’t turn to lock, this time you said it will not turn…

Does it turn any?? or doing the same as last time and won’t turn to lock??

1 Like
3

you are right. it’s been so long i didn’t not recall exactly. My memory sucks. Then it did not shut off, and I had to disconnect the battery if sitting a long time until I removed that cable. Now it just does not move anywhere. Key does not turn at all now. So, do you think i need a new switch? their cheap like 20

4

Sounds like you need a new lock cylinder…

Try spraying a little WD-40 (for now) on the key and then working it in the lock cylinder, maybe even wrap the end of the key with the handle of a big screw driver to see if that helps, if so then you either need to add some lock cylinder graphite to it or replace the lock cylinder, I would remove it and see if it frees up and nothing i the column is keeping it from working…

As I said in the other thread, I don’t remember the details, but I do remember Neon’s having an issue with the column needing repair…

5

It has to be the key. I have 2 spare keys that came with the car. They will not work to run the car but today I tried them to turn and they did. It runs for a few seconds and dies. Either these keys are not programed or they cannot be. Also the spare keys are almost twice as wide as the original. So looks like I have to get AAA again to get towed and keys made and programmed. Or get a new ignition for $18 with 2 keys and get those keys programmed.

Is it possible to get the car programmed not to need these keys at all?

6

Insert the “spare key” into the ignition, place the handle of the registered key next to the handle of the spare key while cranking the engine. The engine should start allowing you to drive to a repair shop to have the ignition lock cylinder replaced.

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7

That is cool idea. I will try that tomorrow. Maybe even tape it on.