Can't turn my ignition switch

Asked by Guru62R3Z Apr 02, 2020 at 12:12 PM about the 2002 Subaru Forester L

Question type: General

Inserted the key but it will not turn, wiggled the steering wheel back and
forth (left and right) doesn't help, what can one do? Is it just time to change
the entire ignition switch?
We tried three different keys that all worked in the past.

2 Answers

It may be a bad spring inside the lock. 1) Try a shot of WD40 lubricant directly into the keyhole. 2) Then, as you "GENTLY" try to turn the key to the ON position, try "GENTLY" tapping the top edge of the key handle with the handle of a screwdriver. This may loosen whatever dirt & grime may be keeping things from aligning right. - This used to work lots of years ago. Be sure to thoroughly wash your hands afterwards.

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Chris W
    Reputation
    11,660
  • #2
    TheSubaruGuruBoston
    Reputation
    9,990
  • #3
    Nick Eidemiller
    Reputation
    6,220
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Subaru Outback
38 Great Deals out of 960 listings starting at $1,795
Used Toyota RAV4
96 Great Deals out of 2,713 listings starting at $2,500
Used Honda CR-V
88 Great Deals out of 4,543 listings starting at $440
Used Subaru Legacy
11 Great Deals out of 186 listings starting at $3,990
Used Toyota 4Runner
15 Great Deals out of 301 listings starting at $9,995
Used Toyota Tacoma
45 Great Deals out of 1,079 listings starting at $9,399
Used Honda Pilot
38 Great Deals out of 1,298 listings starting at $2,995
Used Toyota Highlander
31 Great Deals out of 784 listings starting at $6,500
Used Subaru Impreza
30 Great Deals out of 508 listings starting at $3,444
Used Toyota Camry
62 Great Deals out of 1,074 listings starting at $3,500

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.