The key on my 1996 Chevy Cavalier won't turn without some jiggering (I mean a lot of jiggering).

When it turns it starts fine but most of the time the key just won't move.

Is it possible that this is caused by a stuck tumbler in the lock?

How easy/cheap is it to replace the ignition?

9/9/2010 5:50:47 PM

Sounds like you have a bad stick of RAM

9/9/2010 5:54:16 PM

bang on it a bunch

9/9/2010 6:00:37 PM

I'm betting that your key is worn.

9/9/2010 6:02:35 PM

I am thinking about shooting a puff of graphite into the lock

that shit is called Lock-Eze (or Lock Ease) right?

^ that's probably the case
got a solution to that problem?

[Edited on September 9, 2010 at 6:04 PM. Reason : -]

9/9/2010 6:04:18 PM

locksmith?

9/9/2010 6:09:24 PM

can anyone recommend one?

or should I turn to the Yellow Pages?

9/9/2010 6:17:33 PM

buy a new key-board

9/9/2010 9:37:15 PM

It's definitely a power supply going bad.

But shooting WD-40 directly into the hole should fix it.

9/9/2010 9:58:50 PM

Hold down the Turbo button while turning the ignition.

9/9/2010 10:14:52 PM

now that this is in the right section maybe it will get some more serious responses (thanks to every serious poster prior to the move)

anybody got suggestions on where I can pick up a lock cylinder with keys for this car on the cheap?

9/10/2010 12:28:43 AM

I'm gonna go with Marshall Locks on Poole Rd

9/10/2010 12:01:57 PM

Probably just sticking tumblers. Did you try graphite?

Is this an original key or a copy? Copies will do this if they aren't cut perfectly. You can probably order an original from the dealer for $20 if you don't have one.

9/10/2010 12:09:37 PM

get a new ignition lock cylinder

9/10/2010 1:20:55 PM

Snewf...you can get the lock cylinder and keys from any auto parts store...but upon checking, it's NOT cheap.

Back in the day, POS Cavalier lock cylinders could be had for about 15 bucks. Now...holy sweet Jesus, they're like 10 times that. Different style altogether.

Marshall's is who I like to use. Give 'em a holler.

DEFINITELY try the graphite in the lock cylinder, see if that cures what ails ya. I'd also be tempted to get a new key cut from code if the one you have right now looks worn out like a 5 dolla ho.

[Edited on September 10, 2010 at 1:29 PM. Reason : blah blah.]

9/10/2010 1:27:47 PM

yeah the pre-1996 AND post '96 Cavalier lock cylinders are way cheaper than the '96 one

was there a recall or something?

I think I read on a forum (late last night) that these suckers wear out

Marshall's quoted me like $13 on the newly cut key and $75 to replace the wafers in the lock cylinder if that's what we need to do

I would take it to them today but it is not likely I'll get the car started by then
Monday I guess

9/10/2010 2:44:51 PM

having a tricky ignition is aggravating as damnit!!

9/10/2010 2:48:26 PM

hell yeah it is

but the graphite really seemed to help!

I puffed some in there and worked the key around then I blew the lock out with a can of air

now if I wiggle the key up and down a touch the car starts MUCH easier!

I'm still going to get another key cut but at least I know I can start the fucker now

9/10/2010 3:27:06 PM

the guys at Marshall's were awesome

A++
would recommend

I got 2 keys cut for $16.50 and it solved my problems
plus they greased all my locks for me

they also chastised me for using graphite because it will gum up the lock eventually
that's what it took to get the car there in the first place but next time I'll know to use this silicone/teflon spray from DuPont

9/12/2010 12:13:40 PM

take all the key chains and shit off.

9/12/2010 2:39:25 PM