Stuck ignition on 2002 Chrysler T & C?

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Feisty

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Tonight, out of the blue, my key would NOT turn in the ignition of my 2002 T & C. In checking forums, I found dozens of references that this is a common problem and some rather unique ways of fixing it (including rubber mallets). Anyone have input on this one? Thanks in advance!
 
This happens now and then to my Honda Civic. There is really no specific thing that brings it on.

I don't think major replacements are called for just yet. It's just that something is a little misaligned and needs to be brought back into place.

For me, just having another person try it usually does the trick. Ask a friend or neighbor, or if need be, call AAA. Or try sliding it all the way in until you hear a click (or not all the way in and trying to turn it), wiggling it, maybe trying to move the key in the opposite direction before turning it in the usual one, nothing that will damage it. I wouldn't lubricate it, but maybe warming it up a bit (body heat? portable blow dryer?) would help. Or try sitting in the passenger seat and turning it from there, just to use a different angle.
 
Yes you need a new ignition Cyl. To get it to turn, You must remove the upper and lower steering column covers, by taking uot the three Phillips screws underneath. once the covers are off. tap on the bottom of the cylinder with a hammer and turn the key at the same time. that will get you to a dealer. They will have it in stock.
 
is your key the original key sometimes when you get a copy it does that go to the dealer and explain if they agree have them make you another one
 
Replace the ignition lock cylinder. In the meantime you can just tap on the end of the key with a light weight mallet or screwdriver handle and that will free up the stuck lock cylinder pin so the key can turn the cylinder. The pins are spring loaded and what happens is that when you insert the key the pins in the tumbler go up and down as the key teeth pass them and if there is a pin (or pins) sticking the pin spring will not push it down fully against the key and it will not line up with the cylinder sheer line. Jarring stuck pins with the key inserted drops them into position. This happens to a lot of ignition lock cylinders but it seems Chrysler cylinders have a unique problem with broken pin springs and that can allow the pin to move slightly out of alignment with the sheer line after the cylinder has been turned and that will prevent the cylinder from being turned to the off position. So you should carry something like a mallet or screwdriver in the vehicle because sometimes a faulty lock cylinder like that will get stuck in the ignition "on" position and you will be unable to shut the ignition off. That is a bad situation to be in. But replacing the ignition lock cylinder will resolve your stuck lock cylinder problems.
 
yes take the pressure off the steering wheel with one hand while trying to turn the key with the other
 
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