Steering Column Repair: Steering/ignition 2000 Plymouth Neon, plymouth neon, wd 40

Question
It's getting more and more difficult to work the ignition lock.  I usually have to stuff/jam/bash/swear the key in to get it to turn; sometime doesn't work.  2000 Plymouth Neon non-tilt.

Does the lock need replacing, or is something else in the steering column worn?  Do I need to yank the steering wheel to replace the worn parts?  Disconnect the battery to keep the air bag from exploding?

The battery is about to need replacing .. could a weak one be causing the problems?

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I am having a similar, but not as near total failure as the above, in my 2001 Ford Escape, non-tilt.  Same questions.

Thanks, Doug.

Answer
Hi Jim:
This is a very common problem with vehicles these days.  The lock is not reading the key so is will not allow it to turn.  
Here is something that works more often than not.   At this point you may need a new lock cylinder anyway so damaging the old one is not doing any more damage.  Spray some WD-40 into the lock where the key goes.  Then, with the ball end of a ball peen hammer, tap the chrome part of the lock cylinder (the face where the key goes in.)   What you are trying to do is loosen the tumbler inside so they drop down and read the key.  Sometimes they get stuck.  
Only hit it as hard as you would if your thumb was in the way.  We're not trying to dent it or break anything, just jar it.  Then try the key once again.
If that does not work, then you can call a locksmith and if they have a mobile service, they can come out and replace the lock cylinder and key for @ $100. If you have AAA or a good Insurance roadside protection plan, they reimburse you for that cost.
If that works and you can continue to turn the lock, I would suggest replacing it now, before it jams completely.  On the bottom of the housing (where the lock cylinder goes in) there is a detente release pin.  Turn the lock to the "On" position and you can press that button and the lock will come right out.


Regarding the Escape...same answer, stuck tumblers, but the lock needs to be built to for your key.  You have a computer chip in your key and it gets REAL EXPENSIVE if you get stuck (like $400)!!  Have Ford build you a new lock (About $100) and you can install it CAREFULLY yourself the same way.  No hammering for you.

Good luck
Doug