Pinpoint Test E: The Ignition Key Is Difficult To Turn
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Montego, 2006 Ford Freestyle, and 2006 Ford Five Hundred. 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 REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
- 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 REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
No: GO to E4.
- E4 CHECK THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER HOUSING
- Check for binding or sticking ignition switch in the steering column lock module or insufficient lube.
- Is the steering column lock module 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.