Free ignition lock cylinder fix....

[emsvitil]

Since this probably will apply to different models, I'm posting here....

This was done to a 2005 Vue if it matters.


Was having a problem with the ignition lock cylinder not wanting to turn....

Here's the cylinder:



The tang at the bottom is the locking mechanism. Inserting the key should retract it so that the cylinder will turn.

Except the key doesn't retract it.

However it can be pushed in with the key inserted.


So here's the fix:



Take your dremel and grind a ramp onto the tang.

So with the key inserted, when you turn the cylinder, the ramp will push the tang in.

Without the key, it can't be pushed in, so the cylinder won't turn even with the ramp.

[vettegofast]

awesome

[bern]

Removed lock cylinder lube with white grease, replace worn keys , then if you still have problem replace the lock cylinder. you should always keep one key without ware to be copied later, some dealers are charging for keycode look up. if you have to have the key code looked up. You should ask for a copy of the key code and the tumbler squence. lubing the cylinder and replacing the key fixes most of these.

[vettegofast]

what is called white grease?

[Chazberry]

Originally Posted by vettegofast

what is called white grease?

A.K.A. Lithium

[Chazberry]

Originally Posted by vettegofast

what is called white grease?

Example . . .

[vettegofast]

Ah. I used some graphite spray from o-reilly similar to this:




It works ok but still catches now and then. It's really thin and smells like spray paint too. I cant imagine that it would be a long term lube. More like a penetrating lube.

[Zann]

I just started to have this problem in my 05 vue. The original key isn't working and I swapped to the copy. I guess that it was the wear on the key. Now I have to get motivated to copy the copy for the future. Other than that thanks for all the additional suggestions. They come in handy.

[MrBogey]

Originally Posted by emsvitil

Since this probably will apply to different models, I'm posting here....

Same issue with a 2000 LS1. Worked like a charm. The issue was the tang wouldn't lay completely flat across the entire surface but light pressure would snap it in. Both the main key and the spare (sat on a hook for almost the entire life) wouldn't turn the cylinder.

[amerks217]

Originally Posted by Chazberry

A.K.A. Lithium

Can this be sprayed directly into the key opening without causing more problems ?

[Bernie]

Originally Posted by bern

You should ask for a copy of the key code and the tumbler sequence.

Anyone know how automotive lock cylinders are re-keyed? Is there a kit available?

[RussellClb]

Since 2005, I am now on my 3rd ignition key from the Saturn/Chevy Dealership.
@ $5 a piece ... save yourself the hassle with screwing with the ignition barrel and get a new key ...
(for some reason the keys are soft as **** and wear easily)

[steamloc]

Can you guys give me link how to pull out the lock cylinder?

[emsvitil]

Originally Posted by steamloc

Can you guys give me link how to pull out the lock cylinder?

It's somewhere on this site..............

I found it when I had to pull mine.

[steamloc]

Somewhere... I didn`t find it.

[MoparNut]

Super Lube (available at finer GM dealerships and pool supply stores nationwide) is the preferred lube. White lith tends to gum up the cylinder after awhile. And +1 to replacing the keys-grinding the lock bar down is only fixing the symptom, not the root cause (worn down brass keys).

[emsvitil]

Post 6 for picture:

http://www.saturnfans.com/forums/sho...linder+removal


This isn't what I found before.......

Remove plastic, and remove lock assembly from steering column to be able to access hole.

[steamloc]

Thanks a lot.

[pilk]

Thanks for posting this. It helped me out.

[LastL4Banger]

hey guys, I'm trying to do this on my 2003 Vue (5spd). I cant get past the "ignition cylinder locking retainer". I've read all the threads I can find here. I cant get the cylinder out.

I read the update service bullietin TheVue posted. I am getting stuck at step 4

http://www.saturnfans.com/forums/sho....php?t=168269#

“4. At a downward angle, insert a small diameter Allen wrench or pick tool through the hole on the side of the ignition module assembly. Then depress and push up on the ignition cylinder locking retainer to release the cylinder”

I’m using an allen wrench and I’m not feeling anything clicking or moving or anything. I have to assume I'm missing something simple because nobody else seems to get stuck at this point. My key comes out in the ACC and run position in case thats pertinent.

In the first picture, is the ignition cylinder locking retainer the thing all the way to the left that sticks out the end of the cylinder?