I cant turn my ignition key on, it seems locked, i have a 250 econoline cargo van, pls help

Asked by oga Apr 14, 2011 at 08:45 PM about the 2002 Ford Econoline Cargo 3 Dr E-250 Cargo Van

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

6 Answers

445

While you are trying to turn the key, try turning the steering wheel slightly in either direction to take the pressure off the ignition tumbler. It won't move very far but this is usually the reason you can't turn the key. If this doesn't work, you could have a broken ignition tumbler--not a real expensive repair but it does involve taking the steering wheel cowling off and replacing the switch assembly.

10 people found this helpful.

agreed with other poster or the key switch tumblers have fallen,you may need a new key switch.

3 people found this helpful.
150

How do i replace the ignition switch and what tools do i need?

15 people found this helpful.

best thing to di is to take it to your local lock smith and let them change it out.takes about a hour.

4 people found this helpful.
445

nancy, if it's the ignition switch itself a locksmith will be no help. Haven't had to do this on economine but the basic procedure is to remove the cowling from around the steering wheel probably need those torx sockets that replaced phillips heads screws a while back. The switch assembly bolts into the steering column and has a connector or maybe two that plug into the wiring harness. They may have little plastic clips that take a little figuring out to separate but they can only go into one place. bolt in the new switch and put the cowling back on. figure an hr or two and $50 for a new switch. john

4 people found this helpful.
20

I just stuck the key in and it wouldn’t turn so I just kept trying to turn the steering wheel back and fourth while trying to turn the key and it worked and got unstuck

2 people found this helpful.

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