Master key trouble!

[DRANGED]

I drove the GX 2-3 times this morning. Then this evening the key wouldn't turn the ignition. After a few attempts it was even difficult to removed. Wife's key works fine but mine's the master key, I've cut a valet key as a hidden key to unlock doors, but have never programmed it to start the engine (couldn't find that procedure)... Of course, days before we drive to Baja for a week and a half. . . .

Any ideas about this new problem with the master key NOT turning in the ignition? Graphite and inverting the key with graphite on each side with some jiggling got it to turn the ignition on one side, then eventually with some side pressure the other side worked too. But its kinda tight. Wonder if the tumblers need some attention? This key is relatively newly cut for my YotaMD/GXOR key fob, so it's not worn out...

hmm . . .

 

[Rednexus]

Usually you just have to move the steering wheel slightly to one side. I've had that happen on every vehicle I've owned and it's usually the steering wheel lock binding with the ignition.

 

[DRANGED]

Steering wheel wasn't locked and that movement didn't effect anything. I grahited and that helped. It's just weird that it was all of a sudden.

I think it's good, just didn't know if it was a like a known warning thing for low fob battery or something like that...

 

[DRANGED]

welll, that could be my problem. . .

 

[Rednexus]

I did that to mine as well when using the end of it to tighten a screw. It straightened right out with a set of smooth-jaw pliers.

 

[folivier]

Wonder if you insert the valet key but leave the master key next to it, taped to the lower dash, if it will start?

 

[DRANGED]

Yeah that'll work. A buddy has a broken fob (stock), he uses the valet in the ignition, but fob is on the keyring.