Ignition Problem 2006 Double Cab Limited

Today leaving grocery store key would not turn in ignition switch. This has happened occasionally before. But a little wiggle would work. Today wiggle would not work. The truck was on level ground. After several minutes and about to call a tow I thought to try moving the truck slightly by pushing it with my body force and slightly moving the truck. This worked. Was able to turn key with no problem. I have had this truck 3 months. I noticed when i bought it the ignition switch didn't look right. The key slot was not vertical it is more like in the 10 and 4 o'clock position. I was also surprised the ignition key did not have a chip in it. Did 06 have a chip in the key. What could be binding the key? I am thinking it has something to do with the transmission or steering wheel safety to avoid starting accidentally.

 

The brake pedal/light safety switch or a weak battery?

 

Are you sure your key is not worn out. My truck did that also and the key looked pretty worn so I went to the dealership and had one cut from the VIN and have not had any problems since.

 

I believe 2006 was the last year before the immobilized keys...you’re welcome. Sometimes on my wife’s car you gotta wiggle the steering wheel (cause it’s locked) to get the key to turn.

 

Thanks for the suggestions. I have some spare keys I will try another key. Before this happened I had driven a couple miles with the emergency brake partially depressed. Not enough to notice while driving. I discovered this when I went to depress the eb when i parked in the parking lot.

 

Definitely try that spare key. If not, sounds like it could be the steering lock part in the ignition switch could be wearing out.

 

My '04 ignition does the same thing occasionally. The key looks very worn. Usually taking it out of the ignition and flipping it 180 degrees before inserting again does the trick. I should get a new key cut eventually.

 

Stealer can cut you a key for around $9 each. Hard quality blank. I’m on my third set in 18 years. The key wears out faster than the cylinder which is good. Helps to lube the cylinders with graphite or grease at the minimum.

 

Thanks, I have a couple of extra keys I am going to try. I am thinking that if it was the key that my rocking the truck a little would not have solved the problem. In all my previous cars I have experienced occasional lockups that where being parked on a incline would make it difficult to turn the key or shift out of park. Isn't there some kind of safety mechanism in cars to lock the system for safety reasons?

 

You could lube up the shifter arm under the truck. The cable runs just under the driver side and attaches to the arm that is attached to the transmission. Hit it with some penetrator and slather some grease on it.

 

he he he, I can't help but listen to the little boy inside me and smile while reading this thinking that I've heard of a reach around, but not a reach under...