Key will not turn in ignition

2007 HONDA ODYSSEY
280,000 MILES • 3.5L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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LJHILLUKKA2021
I tried to go start up my van this morning, and the key went into the ignition easily but wouldn't turn. I tried moving the gear shifter from park to neutral and back to park, then from park to drive and back to park, but it still wouldn't work. I then tried to move the steering wheel, but it just turned a tiny bit and then locked, and nothing has worked that I've tried since.
Dec 29, 2021 at 2:31 PM
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KASEKENNY
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
There are a couple more things worth trying. Let's start with using a small amount of spray silicone on the key and then insert it and work it back and forth.

Sometimes these metal keys get stuck due to picking up lint and first and putting it in the switch.

Here is a guide that will give more details about this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ignition-switch-wont-turn-stuck

Worst case we will have to replace the ignition switch but let's try this first and go from there.

Thanks
Dec 30, 2021 at 5:48 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,193 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

Are you able to shift from park? That shouldn't happen if the key is in the off position. Check and confirm it is full in the off position first.

Also, here is a link that explains different things to try. Two of which you already have. However, there are other techniques.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ignition-switch-wont-turn-stuck

Let me know what you find or if that helps.

Take care,

Joe
Dec 30, 2021 at 5:50 PM
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