Steering column won't unlock after new key is used

[teambell]

Background:
Recently cut a new blank key using ebay keyfob blanks to replace the last working key with a failing shell. Had new key cut using the working key at a local locksmith. Testing new cut key in ignition to ensure that it would turn thru the cylinder. I noticed it would only turn in one position , not when inserted both ways. Nest I replaced remote electronics (after replacing the battery) and tried key. It worked great.

Current situation:
Now on the first day of full use, the new key worked for my wife all day while running errands. We met up for a mid day movie and returned to parking lot to a very hot car and a key that wont turn in the ignition slot. no matter what I tried I could not get the key to turn and in the process caused the steering column to lock. Also sterring column is now locked and will not unlock.

And I had to leave to get to the airport in order to cat ch a flight that is now delayed 3 hours...

So my wife obtained the old key with the broken fob and tried it and it will not turn the ignition either... I have asked her to try to unlock the steering column in several ways, hard jerks and wiggling it along with trying to unlock transmission and letting it roll a few feet to change anything. she went after it for an hour using different techniques. Nothing is working for her and I am about to leave for 4 days...

Proposed next steps:
1. She is going to go back in the am and try it when it is cooler (temp drops about 40 degrees at night). My thought is the cabin temp will settle down and perhaps the cause was expanding metal in the lock cylinder and the new cut key it not cut correctly.

2. While she is trying it in the am, she will have someone vigorously puch the front bumper up and down to try to get some pressures to change in the steering, leading to an unlock

3. Use a locksmith to cut the key from a manufacturer key template (using software to configure it? not sure how this works)

Any other ideas?

 

[RobRed]

One other possibility... The shaft of the steering lock has broken. There have been more than a few of these breaks. I hope it's not but if it is:


Parts Needed: for 1998-2002 Model Years;
If you have Power Tilt Steering 45280-60510 Bracket Assy, Steer, $200, qty 1 and 45897-12020 Bolts, $3, qty 2

If you have Manual Tilt Steering 45280-60460 Bracket Assy, Steer, $200, qty 1 and 45897-12020 Bolts, $3, qty 2

 

[hoser]

As you said, the key is not cut accurately to the lock. So it is stuck, mid-turn. I'd keep going with the wiggling the key idea, clockwise and counterclockwise while pushing in and pulling out... AND turning the steering wheel to the left/right to insure the steering wheel lock is not also holding it up. Maybe even spray some lubricant in the keyhole. If all fails, you will have to remove the entire locking mechanism.

ALSO, make sure the gear shift lever is in Park.

 

[mtnracer]

My Home Depot cut blank also only works when inserted one way but not the other. It is consistent though and I don't have a problem starting the truck when inserted the "correct" way.

But from you description it sounds like you may have a binding issue.

This happened on my wife's Infiniti G35 when she pulled into a parking space and the wheels were still turned when she shut the car off. The steering wheels was locked and because of the angle of the steering column (or whatever the mechanism), the key could not unlock the wheel (or start the car).

I think she was able to "dislodge" the mechanism with a lot of movement of the wheel and also rocking the car.

Good luck.

 

[CarbonCruiser]

I have a similar situation where my key (original and recut) works and turns 98% of the time. There is the rare occasion I get in and the key wont turn. If I remove the key and wait a few minutes then it works as normal. Any ideas as to why this is happening? Is there some sort of theft protection that would engage and then reset after a few minutes?