Pinpoint Test E: The Ignition Key Is Hard To Turn
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford RV Cutaway, 2005 Ford Econoline, 2005 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2005 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- E1 CHECK THE STEERING WHEEL POSITION NOTE: The ignition lock cylinder should return from the START position back to the ON position without assistance.
- Check to see if the steering wheel is turned and locked full left or full right.
- Is the steering wheel locked full left or full right?
- Yes : APPLY turning effort to the steering wheel in the direction of lock while turning the key to the ON position. TEST the system for normal operation.
- No : GO to E2.
- E2 CHECK THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER KEY
- Check the ignition lock cylinder key for burrs, damaged key, or incorrect key cut.
- Is the key OK?
- Yes : GO to E3.
- No : REPLACE the ignition key. TEST the system for normal operation.
- E3 CHECK THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER
- Remove the ignition lock cylinder. Refer to HANDLES, LOCKS, LATCHES AND ENTRY SYSTEMS .
- Check the ignition lock cylinder by rotating the ignition lock cylinder through all of the switch positions.
- Does the ignition lock cylinder stick or bind in any of the positions?
- Yes : INSTALL a new ignition lock cylinder. REFER to HANDLES, LOCKS, LATCHES AND ENTRY SYSTEMS .
- No : GO to E4.
- E4 CHECK THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER HOUSING
- Check for binding or sticking ignition switch actuating rod, burrs around the rack and pinion actuator in the ignition lock cylinder housing, or insufficient lube.
- Is the ignition switch actuating rod, rack and pinion actuator and lubrication OK?
- Yes : INSTALL a new ignition switch. REFER to IGNITION SWITCH in this section. TEST the system for normal operation.
- No : REPAIR or LUBRICATE as necessary. TEST the system for normal operation.