QuestionHi Todd,
I'm hoping you may be able to help me. I recently purchased a (used) 2009 Pontiac Vibe. It's been absolutely perfect for the month and a half that I've had it, however when my boyfriend drove it yesterday, the key would not turn in the ignition, when he went to return home.
It finally worked, after he played around with the cover that goes over the steering column (which did appear a bit loose when I purchased it... I didn't think it'd be anything more than a cosmetic issue, if anything so I did not push to have it fixed).
The problem happened again after he moved my car this morning. It could very well be a coincidence that it happens after he drives it, however he experiences the same issue with his car ('04 Grand Am) on a regular basis. Even when I drive his car, there are times when it is parked (wheels straight) in the driveway, when I have to try 5 or so times before the key actually turns. (I've asked him to have it looked at, though that issue is a separate story :)).
From the research I've done today, I see this is something that can happen when the wheel is turned upon parking. I will try and observe his 'parking routine' next time I drive with him, however I am wondering if there is anything else he could POSSIBLY be doing to cause this. As much as I don't want to blame this on him, I find it hard to accept this coincidence.
Thank you in advance for your help!
Stephanie
AnswerHi Stephanie:
unless the steering wheel is turned all the way to the right or the left the wheel interfearing with the key turning is not a likley cause. Seems like more of an issue with the lock cylinder binding up. On the vibe being that is technically being a Toyota Corolla Matrix if you need a new lock cylinder it comes as a complete kit with keys and ALL the lock cylinders for the ignition/door and endgate. We do not repair the lock cyliders or re tuble them it's already tubled to match a new key from the factory. good luck :-)
