xyzzy_dude

The ignition key easily goes into and out of the ignition lock but it doesn't turn. Usually I can get it to turn after jiggling the key but I haven't figured out a regular way to make it work. Once it overcomes the initial resistance/stuckness, it turns the rest of the way easily and easily turns off.

I've tried turning the steering wheel in case it's that lock mechanism but that seems to have no effect. It usually just seemingly randomly works after removing and inserting the key several times, and jiggling the key enough times.

I called the dealer and they quoted $800 for parts alone for a new cylinder and 2 keys. It would be that plus labor plus a locksmith to rekey the door locks to match the new keys.

My indie mechanic said basically the same thing, he'd buy the parts from the dealer and put them in, then send to a locksmith, etc.

So I did some googling and found LS400 ignition cylinders availalable for widely varying prices, ranging from $45 (http://www.partsgeek.com/gbproducts/...FVFp7Aodd38AAw)

up to $900: http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/se...998&make=Lexus

None of them are described the same so I can't tell for sure which I really need. I am much more internet savvy than wrench savvy.

I want to have my key work, obviously, but also I still want the light around the cylinder to work, the automatic movement of the steering wheel to work, and not have a separate ignition/door key. Is there any inexpensive way to get all of that?

billydpowe

iTrader: (1)

only problem I ever had was wheels against the curb and steering wheel jiggle fixed that... yours sounds bad.. good luck, and be sure and post your remedy for us..

xyzzy_dude

Update: I found a local locksmith who specializes in automotive keys. They were recommended to me by two other area locksmiths for this kind of work, so that's a good sign. They will take my ignition lock apart, fix/replace any "pins and disks" that need it (I believe that's the term he used), and put it back together with no rekeying necessary, for a flat fee of $175. I'll be taking it to them tomorrow AM, I'll let you know how it works out.

YoshiMan

Keep us posted. My brothers beater corolla had this happen and we replaced the ignition tumbler with a new one, but now its like an old american car and the ignition key is totally different from the rest of the car!

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

You should look into pulling the existing tumbler and have it repaired.

https://www.google.com/search?q=repa...ient=firefox-a

RA40

iTrader: (6)

How is the key as far as wear? Over time the sharp ridges wear and they will eventually reach a point where it will not work. The pins in many key cylinders are steel and hardened so there is little wear on those. Brass keys over time will also deposit some of this material in the cylinder so a good flushing can be helpful to dislodge any particulates that may be hindering proper operation.

If you have a fresh or sharper key, try that first before spending on cylinder work. Otherwise, take your VIN # to Lexus (along with ID and car registration info to prove ownership) and have them cut a fresh key.

* Note to all other owners, have a fresh spare key/master to work off of. This not only is in regard to key loss but wear. It doesn't have to be a transponder key. Just get a good blank made to copy off of. Cost will be about $15 with cutting.

timmy0tool

iTrader: (7)

^ agree with RA40. i also believe your key has rounded and is not lining up the tumblers properly anymore. try to get a new key recut using your VIN number, and not by tracing your current key.

Legender

Had that exact problem on a 95 Toyota... would open the door, but would not turn the ignition... was intermittent at first, then complete failure...at the worst possible time, on vacation. Spare key worked perfectly... good point, RA40... I can confirm that it can happen. Should always have a fresh spare to make another key off of...good idea.

xyzzy_dude

Update: I took it to the locksmith this morning, they pulled the lock cylinder and rebuilt it while I waited. Now it works perfectly, with the same key. It took about 2 hours and the cost was $175.

I don't think it was wear on the key, as some have suggested. My wife hardly ever drives the car so her key is much newer and "sharper" than mine, and when I tried hers it had the same problem.

I guess this is a common late 1990s Toyota problem. Now that I remember, a couple of years go I bought a 1998 (note same year!) Tacoma from a woman who told me she had had the ignition cylinder replaced, and it had a diffferent key for the ignition and the door locks.

Legender

Great you got it fixed and don't have to carry a couple of keys...
Good find on the locksmith that would do that work for you...

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Glad it was readily fixed. The price is reasonable to so this was good.