Hi, I need help on how to remove a stuck ignition key. It won't turn, but I could still turn the steering wheel. First time it happen is when the key is hard to remove and then the key will not come out, but I could still start the car. Now I can't turn at all. I tried to put some oil not WD with no luck. Any help is greatly appreciated. thank you. Jr
There's a direct link (via steel rod) between the column and the ignition switch...... Make sure the steering wheel isn't putting pressure on the ignition switch.via this rod..be delicate these parts are no longer supported (and expensive even salvage)
Reading your post, something has gone amiss as turning the ignition to 'off' should lock the wheel via that steel rod, look under the dash and see if you can see/move that connecting rod.
The key not coming "out" sounds like the springs/pins in the lock cylinder itself may have travelled from the bores and 'jammed'....any automotive locksmith should be able to sort that out...
I had this problem on my 400i. It turned out to be that black plastic ignition moduule on the back of the switch was toast and would not release the key..I don't know if your car has the same system. If so you will have to remove the module that is held on by two machine screws. On most F models you must re move the entire lock mechanism to replace the module..You can do this. If I can, anyone can. I hope this helps. The module is availble at BMW dealers and some foreign car parts for<>$100USD.
The ignition key is in the second position. I could not turn the key to the off or start position. The key is stuck and won't come out. I will try to see if I could remove the cover and see if the I could access the screw holding the tumbler and key. thank you for your responses.
To do much work on it you are going to need to pull the whole thing, rod and all, out. Take it to the closest Lock and Safe company and tell them "old FIAT"...they'll fix you up!!
It's a very fine pin thru the housing holding the lock cylinder in, hard to see and I don't think removable 'in the car"...maybe.
thanks Bigtex, I did able to remove the tumbler and key over the weekend. I did not break anything on removing it from the car. Now I need help to find if somebody knows which model is similar for the testarossa's replacement key tumbler that does not cost $1400 new or $600 used. thank you
I wouldn't give up on the existing one yet. I've never worked on a TR lock, but have worked an a number of other Ferrari and Alfa locks. They're pretty simple, really. I'm a licensed locksmith and Ferrari owner and available for help if needed. Steve Sandlin, Registered Locksmith (license B12682) Steve's Lock Shoppe www.steveslockshop.com
Steve! Thanks for joining into the thread! I was hoping you would.... I'm amazed he found that retaining pin in the housing to release to tumbler! If he sent that to you it could be refurbished and returned I would think. I need to come by and find you, next time I go to get Mount Zion Barbeque!
The tumbler/springs/pins comes out of the Ignition switch housing, at which point it really looks like "any other one"...
Thank you Steve for the offer. I did able to find a lock smith in San Jose, Ca. (Baker lock smith) very nice people. They even let me see how they work on it. They did put everything back, made extra duplicate keys, but I have not been able to put it back to the car to see if it will work. I know I could remove the key and I could turn the key while it is out. I will take some pictures before I install it back in the car. Jr
Glad you got the lock serviced. As you saw, they are pretty simple to work with. The generic keys aren't rare, either. I'm totally amazed at the prices I see some of the aftermarket suppliers charging. I'm not cheap in the prices I charge, but I just can't condone the F tax of 1000% that I see some of the companies charging. I guess I better get used to it, though....my first car arrives in my driveway tomorrow. Best of luck, Steve
Ilco or Taylor are fine.. The Neiman blanks originally used at the Factory are the rare ones, as are all the modern folding and big fob ended ones. If you ever see the Nieman shanks we use gather them up quietly and tip off your local friends!
