Ignition Key stuck in barrel 406 Executive

[jonnya]

Hello All,

I now have an 406 1.9 Exectutive 98 X reg. The ignition key is stuck in the lock barrel with the ignition switched on (battery now disconnected) I had to stall car to stop engine. The key will not twist and release from the lock. What options/methods do I have to get the key out. Can I release the key without having to get a new lock?

Your replies will be most welcome, Thanks, Jon.

[spider]

I've never seen this happen on that model with its key design.

Hmm. With the battery disconnected you may be able to wiggle it out, although you might have to either remove it (there's a pin hole you can use to depress a plunger in most) but that takes it out complete with barrel not what you want.

Is your car automatic ? , this is important as some models might have a lock solenoid fitted to stop you taking the key out if its not in park. If it is removal of the solenoid on the barrel will release the key.

[jonnya]

It just wont come out!....which ever way I try...softly or with pliers. Pretty puzzling. The car is manual. Ps the car just starts up when battery is re connected as key is stuck in 'on' position. Could the key be worn out.. and just need a really hefty pull?

[spider]

Hmm That is odd.

Will it move at all ie between position 2 (ignition on) and position 3 (start) and maybe go to position 1 (accessories) ?

[jonnya]

It doesnt move at all...it just goes to the ignition on position.

[spider]

Does not sound good.

I think the lock assembly (or in the worse case the column) needs to come out complete if you did not wish to destroy either the key or the lock mechanism, although there's a risk of that anyway. Then its onto the bench vice to see what can be done with it.

[jonnya]

Thanks Andy will look into it further.Cheers Jon

[wheeler]

What I normally try first with keys stuck in ignition or keys not turning in the ignition is to tap the head of the key with the head of a screwdriver as if you are trying to hammer the key into the ignition whilst trying to turn the key a the same time. Quite often does the trick. My advice if you do get it turning is don't remove the key just yet as it may not turn back on again & you could be stuck with the steering lock on. If you get it turning I would advise removing the lock straight away & playing about with it off the car, if the key won't turn back on again you will need to drill the lock out. As already said either disconnect the battery or unplug the ignition switch connections, I've seen people doing this then the switch sticks in the start position & can burn out the starter motor.

[citronut]

if you end up trying to replace the complete lock, you would still need to turn the key back to the first position, before you can depress the pin in that locks the barrel in place,

likewise for just removing the key, it will have to turn back to the fully off position befor you can extract it,

as wheeler says maybe tap it gently inwards as you try to turn it,
or it may have gone in to far, so try gently putting outward pressure to varying degrees trying to turn at each point,

if non of this works i think you will have to resort to a small cold chisel and an ammer , just mind you do not damage the metal tube/sleeve the barrel fits into, just gently chip away at the center'ish of the barrel till the locking pin either falls apart, or you can press it in

[jonnya]

Thanks malcolm, I'm still deciding what to do...take a chisel to it or not..
My prediction...Clarkson will resign. Thanks again everyone. Jonathan.

[citronut]

dont know if these would help,

http://tinyurl.com/m7vntx6" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

i bought a set of these when my key broke of in my ignition lock on my BX TZD,

worked a treat,

i know your situation id different as its the complete key stuck

[Stickyfinger]

I would urge you to take it to a GOOD locksmith or find one on the internet whose specialism is Automotive locks..most larger cities have one or two very good ones.
The parts alone could cost you more than their charge....ask at a expensive 2nd hand quality car dealer who they would use.