Stuck ignition switch

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MetalDrgn - 19 Mar 2005 06:26 GMT

What would be a main cause if the ignition switch will only go into
accessory and lock (won't go forward at all)? Yes it's the right key...
Tried turning the wheel and moving the shifter while trying to turn the
key and no luck.

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Ken - 19 Mar 2005 14:01 GMT

Had something similar just happen to my Formula, but mine stuck when I
engaged the starter. I ended up having to break out the black plastic piece
to get it unstuck. With my switch it seems to be pushing too far into the
column and catching, though I've not yet pulled things apart to discover
specifics. In my case I need a new key lock. The local dealer priced it at
$70 plus $25 each for a VATS key. Since it involves that many dollars I'm
more than happy to bypass the VATS and use the key and a screwdriver to
start the car. Probably stay that happy for a few more months.

Ken

> What would be a main cause if the ignition switch will only go into
> accessory and lock (won't go forward at all)? Yes it's the right key...
> Tried turning the wheel and moving the shifter while trying to turn the
> key and no luck.

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GLK9MM - 19 Mar 2005 15:39 GMT

> Had something similar just happen to my Formula, but mine stuck when I
> engaged the starter. I ended up having to break out the black plastic piece
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
>>Tried turning the wheel and moving the shifter while trying to turn the
>>key and no luck.

Or, you can have a locksmith take a look at the tumblers.

    Martin
    '01 Formula -    MTI Air Box Lid, K&N Filter, Hurst-6,
            SLP Cold Air Induction & Smooth Intake Bellow
            Corsa Catback w/Premium Tips
    '83 V45 Magna

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MetalDrgn - 20 Mar 2005 05:31 GMT

thanks for the reply. I found out it was the rod that goes from the
steering column down the shaft to the starter switch was caught on
something. It ended up being the wire that locks the wheel when you have
the key in the lock position. It's missing a spring or something and got
in the way of the rod. This is my car at home and I'm 2000 miles away
right now so I don't know exactly what it looked like. Yea the lock
cylinder was pulled out and it worked fine. Well all better now :)

This car doesn't have VATS, but my other one here does and I've already
found the value for it so I can just bypass it myself with some
resistors...

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