Help! Ignition Jammed - Key Won't Turn. 300 Miles from Dealer

[bushwack]

Well it snowed two feet last night here in Wyoming, and I moved my 05 LX 470 across the street into a parking lot so I could shovel. When I got back in the car, I couldn't turn the key in the ignition. It's stuck in the "lock" position.

The steering wheel is loose, and I've turned it back and forth so I don't think that's the issue. I sprayed houdini into the lock cylinder to perhaps loosen up the tumblers - no luck. I tried tapping on the cylinder with a screw driver, tapping the key, and several other tricks to no avail. Also I tried my spare key which performed the same.

I read several threads using the search function and there was a great write up on how to fix a lock cylinder that turns but doesn't start. However I couldn't find anything for my situation - the key won't turn at all.

I called the dealer which is 300 miles away in SLC, they said I would have to have it towed and offered no advice. I can't imagine what the towing bill would be for that distance so I'm praying and rubbing my lucky rabbits feet in hopes that someone knows how some way to get this car started! I'm open to anything at this point, I'll tear the dash apart and try anything!

Thank you cruiser masters!

 

[PLROD]

Just a guess but try blowing some hot air into the cylinder with a hair dryer or heat gun and see if that helps. What is the ambient temp up there now at?

 

[nissanh]

You can start the engine by turning the rear switch assembly by a flat screwdriver (see the picture). Make sure to keep your transponser in the ignition to activate the immobilizer. You need to remove two philips bolts holding this unit into the ignition unit housing. I will NOT advise you to drive it because you cannot move the key to ACC to unlock the steering.

You can remove the ignition unit housing from the steering column by unscrewing the two bolts located on the top of the unit. Problem is these two bolts have no grove to grasp with any tool. You can try a center punch and hammer to turn it anti clockwise. Just take this unit to the dealer and get it fixed.