QuestionQUESTION: My key seems jammed going in, then won't turn to start. After some wiggling, it starts smooothly, stops - starts - stops - starts - pull out key, then key won't go in again... Repeat, etc. I believe either there is something in there that I want to find a way to get out OR there is actual damage to the ignition that I would like to be able to visually diagnose - can I pull the steering column cover pieces off and get to the ignition of my 2004 civic without destroying more than I'm trying to repair?
ANSWER: Hi Brad:
The short answer is that taking the covers off will not gain you anything. The mechanism is sealed. You simply need some light lubricant in there to help the key and mechanisms move more easily. Spray some WD40 right inside the lock, where the key goes and then work it a few times. That should take care of the problem. It is very common for Hondas
I hope this helps you
Good luck
Doug
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Yeah, that was my first instinct as I've had keys jamming in door locks saved that way before...no improvement whatsoever. Removing key or pipe cleaner comes out very black. 1/2 a can of WD40 down and my car is stuck in the driveway with a full tank of gas...
So if I can't get into the cylinder itself, is it easily removable? Thinking I can replace it myself for parts cost - or will I need specialized tools that force me into a shop that'll charge 300% more than the part?
Many thanks,
Answer
typical Honda lock ass
OK.
Sorry Brad.
The replacement switch assembly from Honda is $388. The problem is that there is coding involved for the different key and programming involved for the antitheft system built into the lock assembly. So if you want to use your own key and avoid the tow to the dealer after you install the new lock so they can program the new lock and key (for $100), you need to take the new assembly to a locksmith and have them rekey it back to your original key (The antitheft chip is in the key head). Then you can spend the hour and a half drilling out the breakaway bolts that hold the lock assembly to the column tube...I chisel them out backwards, unthreading them instead of drilling. You most likely don't have to replace the electrical harness that comes with it so you can swap all of those harnesses over to the new assembly.
OR
I would recommend you call a locksmith out to your house now. Have him drill the lock pins out of the original housing assembly, remove the lock cylinder, rekey THAT one to your key so it works smoothly all the time and reinstall it. That should run you about $100 total for everything.
We replace locks for stolen vehicles all the time, but when it comes to a simple lock that's not reading the key problem I always recommend the less expensive way.
I hope all this helps
Good luck
Doug
