95 s10 KEy wont turn (car wont start)

Before you replace the tumbler, try a different key. Pick up a chiltons for the r& r procedure.

I just resolved a problem with my 97 S-10 and a starting problem. The key would suddenly and randomly refuse to start, the lock would not release the key and ALL electrical systems were disabled. A locksmith made a new key and it worked fine for 24 hours then refused to start or release the key. I suspected the anti-theft system but after reading a few items on this web site I tried moving the ground wire on the battery- BINGO- everything started buzzing and the key worked perfectly. Problem was a bad ground even though the battery terminals showed no sign of corrosion. Some baking soda and water seem to have corrected the problem. :D

[quote:e1e215b8d0=".Snow."]Yesterday i walked to my car and went to start it and the key wouldnt turn. I imediantly thought the steering wheel was locked and moved it back and forth. that didnt work. could it be the tumbler or the ignition switch? i worked on it a little today and could move the steering wheel but not the key. whats the procedure to replacing a tumbler?

1995 s10 5 speed 2.2 liter with air bags. Could someone please help me out?

thanks[/quote:e1e215b8d0]

I too have a 95 S/10 with the same issue. Left me and my 5 yr old stranded at the house this morning. I have dropped everything as described by the Haynes and Chilton's manual. I have a new lock cylinder since it was only $14.99. Problem is, it requires the old lock be turned to the 'Start' position to be able to insert the 1/16th inch hex head to depress the retaining pin. Problem is, the cylinder will NOT turn at all. This is why I am trying to replace it. How do I get the old cylinder out? Is it safe to drill this thing out? I am wondering if I drill the tumblers out will it 'unlock'?

[quote:ed34e13a6a="24tesla"][quote:ed34e13a6a=".Snow."]Yesterday i walked to my car and went to start it and the key wouldnt turn. I imediantly thought the steering wheel was locked and moved it back and forth. that didnt work. could it be the tumbler or the ignition switch? i worked on it a little today and could move the steering wheel but not the key. whats the procedure to replacing a tumbler?

1995 s10 5 speed 2.2 liter with air bags. Could someone please help me out?

thanks[/quote:ed34e13a6a]

I too have a 95 S/10 with the same issue. Left me and my 5 yr old stranded at the house this morning. I have dropped everything as described by the Haynes and Chilton's manual. I have a new lock cylinder since it was only $14.99. Problem is, it requires the old lock be turned to the 'Start' position to be able to insert the 1/16th inch hex head to depress the retaining pin. Problem is, the cylinder will NOT turn at all. This is why I am trying to replace it. How do I get the old cylinder out? Is it safe to drill this thing out? I am wondering if I drill the tumblers out will it 'unlock'?[/quote:ed34e13a6a]

Destroyed a few bits but finally drilled it out. Once I did, I was able to remove the old cylinder and replace it.
All is good now.