Thread: Worse case scenario? Screwdriver in the ignition.

Im just wondering how wrong this could go.

I have a troubleshooting post up elsewhere but really wanted a worse case for fear of damaging the ignition or anti theft system.

symptom:
Ignition cylinder does not recognize the key to turn the ignition

Ignition cylinder cannot be turned due to steering wheel lock being engaged



So my plan as of right now is to hammer a screwdriver into the ignition, turn it to disengage the steering wheel lock and allowing me access to the retaining clip and replacing the ignition cylinder.

Like I said I just like peace of mind taking this action is not going to result in having to be taken to the dealership to be sorted.

try pushing the wheel each way while trying to turn the key?

for sure. the key was severely deteriorated when it was used to tow the car.
visible rust on it.
even after several treatments of pb blaster the ignition would not be jostled loose from the steering wheel lock.
I intend to jack the car up off the front tires and give it one more try before going through with the screwdriver.
I'm rather convinced that the rusty key damaged the ignition lock.
Ive tried cleaning the ignition as well slightly tapping the key with a hammer to try to knock anything loose to no avail.

you can get the key code from the dealership. via the vin #. they can cut it, or you can go to a lock smith type key cutter who can cut with the code.

now you got a new key to try.

lmao yeah I suppose I should have said,
This is after having a new key cut to code from the dealership.

Having only done like one ignition... does the key have to be turned in order to remove the cylinder?

I know Scott knows this

yes it does. then push in the small hole up top with a pick and pull the cylinder out.

Yeah I had tried using a paperclip to kind of give it the reach around form the access hole but the key has to be in the on or acc position in order for the retainer clip to line up with the access hole.

this is where my issues come in with the steering wheel locked I cant remove and replace the ignition cylinder.

Hence screwdriver to the ignition. It just seems a little scary to take such a destructive action without knowing the possible repercussions.

I just wanted to make sure this is gonna trigger some no start dealership reset theft system or damage the ignition itself to the point where I need a new column.

my worry would be you break the column. everything else can be delt with easy.

in theory you should be able to just turn the knob on the black ignition harness box and fire it up. the key turns the knob on the box.

yeah that what I was thinking, Ill just try to be as gentle as possible.

Did you try under the steering wheel the quick release button for the key? I used that button for a year until I finally fixed my ignition switch. To pull the entire ignition switch you need a weird inverted torque key. I had to buy it from Autozone. I personally wouldn't hammer the key.

Drill out the ignition cylinder.