Ignition key and lock tumbler replacement instructions - key is stuck

Tiny
MLKOONS
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 DODGE NEON
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 1,000,000 MILES
Bought the car my friend lost the key have a new key cylinder. How do I program it to the car or what else do I need to use that key cylinder?
Wednesday, March 28th, 2018 AT 11:30 AM

22 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,172 POSTS
Here are the instruction on how to change out the ignition lock and key cylinder. You will need to get the parts from the dealer so they can programm the new unit to your car. Please bring your VIN number. Check out the diagrams (below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
-2
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:33 AM
Tiny
MARIAA
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2005 DODGE NEON
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
I had to replace the steering column and the key from the new steering column will not work. How do I program or so it will because I lost the key to the old steering column?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:34 AM (Merged)
Tiny
DANNY L
  • MECHANIC
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I am Danny.

I found this article relating to your vehicle if it is equipped with the Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) and have attached a picture. It was available as a factory installed option. Since you have changed the column and have a new key(s) it needs to be programmed with a DRBIII scan tool. Hope this helps and let me know if you have any further questions.
Danny-
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:34 AM (Merged)
Tiny
BOWEN ROGERS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2003 DODGE NEON
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
Car listed above is an SXT model. The first part of my ignition that controls the wheel is still on while my key is out and the rest of the car is off, and it’s preventing me from getting the key all the way in to turn the car on fully. I’ve tried shimming the wheel while turning the key, I’ve tried multiple keys, I’m not sure at this point how to reset the lock cylinder so that I can turn the car on and I haven’t been able to find any information to a case like this online.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:36 AM (Merged)
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Just so I understand this, the ignition is not turning all the way in either direction but the key still comes out? If so, it sounds like this ignition switch has failed and needs replaced. If I understand this correctly, I attached the process of how to do this.

Let me know if I got this wrong. If so, maybe get a video of the issue so we can see what is happening. Thanks
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:36 AM (Merged)
Tiny
ANDRECLL01
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2002 DODGE NEON
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 79,000 MILES
Hi. My name is Andrew. I have a have a problem with my key switch. The other day I had to go to school, but when I put the key in the ignition, my key wouldn't turn. I tried to turn the steering wheel at the same time, but it didn't do anything. Is there anyway You can help me repair this, or can you give me names of places where I can buy a new switch
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
Hello Andrew.

It sounds like you may need a new ignition switch, however there is a cheap trick you can try first. this guide can help

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

Use some TRI-FLO (with Teflon) to liberally flush the lock of any lint, dirt and debris, then follow with a lubricant like Lock-Shot by Starttec. Run your key in and out vigorously to work out any dirt and work in the lube. Now try turning the ignition. Repeat all steps several times (1. flush, 2. lube, 3. massage tumblers with key, 4. attempt to turn lock...). If this does not help then your key may be slightly bent or worn out? It is a good idea to see a locksmith and have them make a new key if your key does look bent or worn. If neither of these help then the ignition switch will probably require removal and service by a locksmith. (most dealers simply remove and replace it at a much HIGHER rate than a locksmith would charge, so I suggest locksmith first if possible)

If you think you can tackle on the replacement job yourself, I can guide you through it with some step by step procedures. Just let me know.

Thanks for using 2carpros.com! I hope I have helped.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
MICHAEL HOLMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2002 DODGE NEON
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 200,000 MILES
I got the old one out and am trying to put the new one in, but the old one would not turn to the on position. So how do I heterogeneous it to go all the way in?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,172 POSTS
Hello,

The switch must be timed correctly so it can be assembled. If you have troubles please take a video of the trouble so I can see whats going on, upload it to the site here.

Here is the compete guide on how to change the switch out.

Check out the diagrams (Below)

Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.

Cheers, Ken
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
TLSMITH
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2002 DODGE NEON
  • 4 CYL
  • MANUAL
  • 102,000 MILES
How do you replace an ignition switch on a 2002 dodge neon?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,814 POSTS
IGNITION SWITCH
Removal
1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Turn ignition switch in RUN position. Through hole in lower shroud, depress retaining tab and remove lock cylinder. See Fig. 6.

2. Remove upper and lower column shrouds from column. Disconnect ignition switch harness connector. Using a Torx bit, remove ignition switch mounting screw. Depress retaining tabs and pull ignition switch from steering column. See Fig. 7 and Fig. 8.

Installation
Ensure ignition switch and actuator shaft are in RUN position. Carefully install ignition switch. Switch will snap over the retaining tabs. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
+3
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
LAELLARKIN
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2001 DODGE NEON
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 93,099 MILES
My car was stolen a few weeks ago and somehow by luck or miracle was found and back in my possession and not in as bad of condition as I had expected it would be when I recovered it. But one big issue is apparently while it was gone the ignition switch was pushed in and then started with a screw driver since they didn't have the key. And has not yet been replaced because within 24-48 hours of having the car back it was still able to turn on and off but will no longer start or turn over. I know it needed replacing no matter what obviously but it wet from starting up one day then to nothing the next? At first wasn't doing anything for me but now you can hear it trying to turn over again but has had no luck. Actually sounds like it's almost shutting off on me or something. When it does like it's turning really slowly or doesn't have enough power but battery and connectors seem just fine and should be working.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
I suspect you have two possible issues. First does sound like a weak battery. So I would charge it or replace it. It that solves the starting issue then you are good to go. If it doesn't then you are going to need an ignition switch. However, I suspect you have both as an issue.

I included the process for removing the steering column. That is how you get the ignition switch out (step 25). You may be able to get to it with completely removing the column but I think this is a vehicle that it does need to be removed. It has been a while since I did one so I can't remember.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
JLCH4444
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2001 DODGE NEON
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 90,000 MILES
My car won't turn off when you remove the key it keeps running. I am able to reinsert the key and play with turning it back and forth to get it to turn off. I need to know how to fix it, can I do it myself, if not will it be expensive? I do not have much experience fixing anything with cars and my husband is even less help
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,896 POSTS
Probably a defective ignition switch, based on your dandy description. It's a common failure item, but not for this symptom. I was surprised by a recent post where the person said the switch took care of his problem, and it was under 50 bucks.

Replacing the switch isn't hard if you can follow the directions in the service manual. You'll need to release the lock cylinder and put it into the new switch. It's much harder to describe than to do. The switch is held in with three tamper-proof torx screws, so you'll need a special screwdriver bit. The Snapon, Matco, Mac, and Cornwell tool truck guys can supply those.

With the right tools at hand, the job takes about 20 minutes.

The lock cylinder should be inspected too. There is a round cam on the end, about 5/8" in diameter. When the cam cracks, it doesn't turn the ignition switch far enough. The very common symptom is the dash lights come on like normal but the starter won't crank the engine. It might crank if you turn the switch real hard, but you risk breaking the key. If this is the cause, the engine should turn off if you run the switch all the way back to the Accessory position. There is a repair kit available to replace just the broken cam.

When it doesn't turn off as expected, observe if the radio display is still on. If it is off, the ignition switch moved far enough that the engine should be off too, so suspect a defective switch. Here are the instructions in the diagrams below to show you how to replace the ignition switch. Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:37 AM (Merged)
Tiny
GENEWHORL
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
  • 1998 DODGE NEON
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 100 MILES
1998 Dodge Neon Sport. I need to change the ignition cylinder. The old one keeps getting locked where you cannot turn the key. Can you tell me how to take out the old cylinder and install the new one.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:38 AM (Merged)
Tiny
BMRFIXIT
  • MECHANIC
  • 19,053 POSTS
If you can turn the key this is what you can do
Removal
Disconnect and isolate negative battery cable.
Turn ignition on.
Using hole in lower shroud, depress lock cylinder retaining tab.
Remove key cylinder.

Installation
A tab on ignition switch aligns with a notch in lock cylinder housing. A slot in end of ignition switch fits over shaft in end of lock cylinder housing.
Use ignition key to rotate lock cylinder to align ignition switch with lock cylinder housing.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
+3
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:38 AM (Merged)
Tiny
TLCOLLINS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 1996 DODGE NEON
How do you take out and replace the key tumbler
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:38 AM (Merged)
Tiny
BMRFIXIT
  • MECHANIC
  • 19,053 POSTS
Disconnect the battery
place key in run position
through the hole in lower shroud depress retaining tab
remove lock cylinder


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/99387_neon96_1.jpg

Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:38 AM (Merged)
Tiny
JOHNREY
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
  • DODGE NEON
My Dodge Neon (1998) has a problem with the Ignition key. Sometimes it is hard(feels kind of jerkey) to turn it and when it is, it will start but then the brake, light, and a few other lights will be on, and the turn signal will not work. If you then just turn it off and on again, then it will turn easy again, and start normally. This happened a couple of times. Today the car would not start, you can easily turn it to the on position, but not past to start it, all the lights come on and you can start it with a jumper wire at the starter relay. The car runs fine.

Well I thought it must be the mechanical tumblers, but when I removed the whole cylinder, it feels like you can easily turn it, at least to a point, then it stops dead. Well looking to the rim behind where there is a cam that 2 spring loaded pins push on the cam, it look like the key cannot turn all the way to where the marks go, but I don't know if there is something else that needs to happen to unlock it to go further.

My question is, how do I know if it is the tumbler, or the electrical part of the switch that is faulty?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, May 7th, 2021 AT 11:39 AM (Merged)

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links