Ignition key won't turn


Ignition key won't turn Mechanic's Assistant: Can you turn the steering wheel at all? And what about the key? Is it worn or damaged? Steering wheel will turn a little. Key is old but has been working fine. Mechanic's ...

Ignition key won't turn Mechanic's Assistant: Can you turn the steering wheel at all? And what about the key? Is it worn or damaged? Steering wheel will turn a little. Key is old but has been working fine. Mechanic's Assistant: What is the make/model/year of your car? 2003 Toyota Tacoma Mechanic's Assistant: Are you fixing your Tacoma yourself? What have you tried so far? Turning the key while turning the wheel back and forth, moving the key slightly more in and out while trying to turn it, banging on the dashboard. Mechanic's Assistant: Anything else you want the Mechanic to know before I connect you? It's cold out. This has happened once or twice before in very cold weather.

Automotive Expert
Hello! Welcome to JustAnswer. Thank you for contacting us for assistance with your Tacoma. My name is \*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\* I'll be helping you today. I'm so sorry you are having this issue with your Tacoma, I know it can be frustrating. Instead of turning the wheel back and forth and trying to turn the key, just hold the wheel as far as you can one way and try to turn the key, then the other way and try to turn the key if it doesn't unlock. If you still can't get it to move, unfortunately you'll have to take apart the ignition lock cylinder and steering column in order to free it, and it will likely need a new steering column lock.

I already tried doing that.Is it possible that it just froze? It's been wet and below freezing.
Automotive Expert
It's possible, but usually the issue is the lock cylinder gets worn and needs to be replaced.

Thank you
Automotive Expert
You're welcome, best of luck!

FYI - I let off the parking [brake](/topics-brake-toyota/), allowed it to roll a couple inches, and it worked.Maybe something to try for future customers who pay for your advice before telling them to pay for repairs.
Automotive Expert
Great, thank you so much for the expert advice!

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