Dodge lock tumblers can fail over time, making it difficult to start your car´s engine. Many lock tumblers experience some sort of malfunction at 125,000 miles. If you have trouble turning your key in the ignition, or if it sticks at the "Run" position, this indicates that one of the lock tumbler´s components has failed. You can purchase a new lock tumbler at an auto parts store, or find one at a junkyard -- make sure that your replacement lock tumbler is of the same make and year.
Use a socket wrench to disconnect the battery's negative terminal. Straighten the steering wheel so that the front wheels are facing straight ahead. Put the key into the ignition and turn it to "On."
Locate the hole directly beneath the ignition (this hole is in the plastic trim that surrounds the ignition). Insert a screwdriver into this hole until it presses the lock tumbler´s release mechanism -- you will hear a click when it is released. Remove the lock tumbler by pulling the key out -- since the key is locked in the "On" position, it will bring out the entire lock tumbler.
Remove the key from the old lock tumbler by turning it to "Off" and pulling it out. Insert the key into the new lock tumbler and keep it in the "Off" position. Insert the new lock tumbler into the hole left by the old tumbler -- press the tumbler in with the key until it you feel resistance. At that point, turn the key to "On" and insert a screwdriver back into the release mechanism hole, which will secure the new lock tumbler in place. Reattach the battery´s negative terminal and test your ignition to make sure that the new lock tumbler is properly installed.
