Hello,

I would like to ask for some assistance on a problem I have. This morning my car worked fine as I went on a short errand. A while ago I going out and I place my key in the ignition switch and the key is unable to turn the switch. It's locked. I release the transmission shifter with the lock release and move the shifter down and back up to the park position. But no change. I can insert and remove the key but I'm unable to turn the switch at all.

Could this just be the switch or some safety switch that is preventing the key from turning?

Thanks for your time.

 

It's probably the steering wheel lock. Move the steering wheel from side to side while putting pressure on the key, it should turn.

Or the key is not in all the way, make sure you push it in while you try to turn.

 

Finch13,

Thanks for your input. I recently purchased my 1997 Honda Accord V6 model. I had moved the steering wheel back and forth but not while turning the key. Your suggestion worked just fine. Some American cars like the Ford Crown Vic series have a safety switch that unless the break pedal is pressed the shifter is locked.

Thanks again man.

 

Yes, your car has that switch as well.

The steering wheel lock is sort of an anti-theft/anti-tow measure and completely unrelated to the shifter interlock switch.

Your welcome!