key won't turn
Asked by shdixon Aug 23, 2007 at 08:47 AM about the 2002 Chrysler Sebring
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
My wife has a 2002 sebring. The key won't turn in the ignition. Another site recommends the "mallet" technique where you tap the key three times with a rubber mallet. This has worked fine for about 6 months. Now even the tapping does not work. We do NOT want the expense of a new steering column. This problem has been going on for years with Chrysler products. Is there any information from Chrysler on this problem or any suggestions for a reasonable fix? Thanks
5 Answers
Hi shdixon, I don't know that you need to replace the entire steering column just because your key won't turn. It should just be fixed by replacing the ignition switch located on your steering column. For reference, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has a website that you can search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your year/make/model. The website link is included below. http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/tsb/tsbsearch.cfm Good luck!
alexander_thompson answered 13 years ago
I think it could be the transponder inside which has been damaged. Had the same problem with my Neon key after I dropped it on asphalt. The dealer recommended replacing it for which they were going to charge me £250. I found a really good deal with http://autokeysquad.co.uk/lost-car-keys.php which sorted me out the same day for just £108 at the time I chose.
alexander_thompson answered 13 years ago
They only serve London within the M25 though. My brother tried to set up a booking with them in oxfordshire and they refused
Locksmith removed lock, filed something smooth and lubricated the lock. Cost $70. No problem since.
KeynotturningSupport... answered 10 years ago
The tapping of the key stopped working for me on Friday 1/3/14, so I called a 24hr Emergency Locksmith(go on internet for local) that handles autos and had the lock changed. Less expensive than taking it to a dealer or mechanic. Problem solved.
