Ignition Lock Cylinder Difficult To Turn

H1 CHECK THE LOCK AND UNLOCK OPERATION
- Inspect the key for an incorrect cut, burrs or damage.
Is the key correctly cut and free of burrs and damage?
- Yes : GO to H2
- No : REPLACE and PROGRAM a new key.
  REFER to: ANTI-THEFT SECURITY ACCESS .
H2 CHECK THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER OPERATION
- Insert the key into the ignition lock cylinder and rotate the key through all ignition switch positions.
Does the key rotate through all ignition switch positions without excessive effort?
- Yes : The mechanical function of the ignition lock cylinder is OK.
- No : GO to H3
H3 CHECK THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER WHILE INSERTING THE KEY
- Remove the ignition lock cylinder.
  REFER to: IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER .
- While holding the ignition lock cylinder, apply finger pressure to the back of the lock.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Ignition Lock Back
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
- With pressure still applied to the back of the lock, insert and remove the key from the ignition lock cylinder. Repeat this step several times.
  
  Fig 2: Removing/Installing Ignition Lock From Cylinder
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Does the key insert and remove freely into the ignition lock cylinder?
- Yes : GO to H4
- No : INSTALL a new ignition lock cylinder.
  REFER to: IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER .
H4 CHECK THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER FOR BINDING ROTATION
- While holding the ignition lock cylinder, apply finger pressure to the back of the lock.
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Ignition Lock Back
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
- With pressure still applied to the back of the lock, use the key to rotate the ignition lock cylinder through all positions.
  
  Fig 4: Rotating Ignition Lock Cylinder
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Does the ignition lock cylinder rotate freely?
- Yes : INSTALL a new ignition switch.
  REFER to: IGNITION SWITCH .
- No : INSTALL a new ignition lock cylinder.
  REFER to: IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER .