QuestionIt is becoming increasing difficult to start my car. Apparently the tumblers in the ignition box are slipping. I'm told not unusual in a Chryusler. Can I go to a scrapyard and get a used part. My car has a security chip. Usually tapping the ignition ring with a hammer has jossled things into place but my luck is running out.
Help. Have no money, just spent 1500 because the lower wheel joint fell off!!
Lucky to be alive but need to get around.
Thanks
L
AnswerHi Lorraine,
When you say 'difficult to start my car' please give me some specifics. I assume the starter motor works, correct?
Does the engine start, then quickly stall (in 1-2 seconds) or does it not even start, just keeps cranking with no sign of life?
It sounds like you have the sentry key immozilizer system which has a ring around the ignition switch and a bulge on the grip of the key, correct?
What happens when you 'hammer' on the ring? Does it suddenly start normally or does it still struggle, but at least starts?
Have you tried to get a fault code readout for clues as to what the engine controller has noticed to be abnormal. Go to an Autozone parts store where they will do a free readout and tell you any 4-digit number (fault codes) and ask what they mean. Then write and tell me the numbers and we'll go from there.
To avoid unnecessary costs we have to focus in using the on-board self-diagnostic capability of the car.
Roland
