Pinpoint Test E: The Ignition Key Is Hard To Turn
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Grand Marquis and 2006 Ford Crown Victoria. 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 : INSTALL a new 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 . TEST the system for normal operation.
No : REPAIR or LUBRICATE as necessary. TEST the system for normal operation.