steering wheel locked and key won't turn?
03-15-18, 11:26 AM
#31
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2008 RX350 Ignition switch replacement part
Steering and ignition switch - front view
I have a 2008 RX350, my first Lexus. I have had the Key lock problem for 4 years now and it's very random, 2-3 times a year. I tried to have it towed twice but by the time the tow truck arrived the ignition key started to work on it's own. I have plowed through every site I could find (there are many listings on the Internet for this ignition switch problem, as this IS a design issue with Lexus) I have used a dozen different solutions I have seen listed. None of the solutions listed on this site or any other really fixed the issue, permanently. Note, my local Lexus dealer denies there is any problem with the ignition, BS. I finally decided to pay for the ignition switch assembly to be replaced, which is cheaper than buying another used vehicle. I had it replaced by my local mechanic who works on all my Toyota's. The total cost was just under $1,900, which included re-keying the door lock for the new keys. I have attached pictures so you could see the assembly part I replaced. I feel like this has really fixed the issue permanently or at least for another 100K miles. Two years ago I had to replace the alternator, that ran about $1,900. Dear Lexus - I won't be looking at your products in the future when I am shopping for a vehicle.
03-15-18, 05:51 PM
#32
After being unable to turn the key to start the car randomly a handful of times, ours was also fixed by replacing the ignition lock assembly. Luckily still under CPO warranty at the time and fortunately it happened while at the dealer for an oil change. Before they witnessesed it, their only recommendation was WD40 in the lock cylinder. Of note, our problem did not coincide with the steering wheel being locked; the steering wheel usually locked up while wrestling with the key trying to start the car.
Last edited by NVAKeith; 03-15-18 at 05:57 PM.
08-11-24, 08:18 PM
#35
Thank you !!! in 2024!!
My wife has mistakenly used the key from my 2002 ES 300 to start her 2001 RX 300. When she does this the ignition locks. Lexus recommends using the correct key to unlock and lock the driver door 3 times to reset the security system. Then, pushing with both feet on the brake try to start the car. This has worked in the past but this time it did not. I followed the suggestion of tapping on the key in the ignition with the handle of a screwdriver. I used the emergency key that comes with car because it is bare metal. I gave it a few firm taps and the ignition turned right away. It does seem as if it is the tumblers that are getting stuck.
The revelation about the flat key saved our butts. We did reset the security by opening/locking w the original key 3x. Then we opened the door w the flat key. You MUST have the plastic holder for the flat key, and your main key, next to the ignition to start it. Otherwise it won’t start. It worked!!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!!
08-23-24, 08:56 PM
#36
Hit it like you mean it
Tried everything mentioned (friends car-2003 300ES) all day, very frustrating. Finally decided to REALLY TAP Key while in ignition...repeatedly, pretty firm (since only alternative was replacing ignition).
Also inserted only thing available: A tire plug punch tool...until bell beeped (signifying key inserted).
(by this time, the suspect battery, which was being jumped off, was fully charged), and THE KEY TURNED, CAR STARTED.
NOTE: Any ONE or all of those three steps: hammering inserted key, small tool inserted into ignition, or fully charged battery could have corrected the problem.
Also inserted only thing available: A tire plug punch tool...until bell beeped (signifying key inserted).
(by this time, the suspect battery, which was being jumped off, was fully charged), and THE KEY TURNED, CAR STARTED.
NOTE: Any ONE or all of those three steps: hammering inserted key, small tool inserted into ignition, or fully charged battery could have corrected the problem.
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Margate330 (08-24-24)
08-24-24, 07:38 AM
#37
Lexus Test Driver
I haven't had this happen to me yet, and hope it never does. Lol
08-28-24, 10:13 AM
#38
2nd gear
Join Date: Aug 2024
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Hi,
I just joined today as I have the same problem w/ our 2007 Lexus RX350.
I was wondering if it would help ignition to spray some WD40 into lock .
I was also wondering if anyone knows if you have to replace the entire ignition switch or just get it working by replacing the tumbler part?
I just joined today as I have the same problem w/ our 2007 Lexus RX350.
I was wondering if it would help ignition to spray some WD40 into lock .
I was also wondering if anyone knows if you have to replace the entire ignition switch or just get it working by replacing the tumbler part?
09-06-24, 02:19 PM
#39
Key ignition problems
Our problem was solved by finding the original "Flat Key" that was with the owner's manual the owner gave us when we bought the car. It really saved our a$$.
Tried the hammer, the WD40, wiggling, it didn't work. The original key still opened the trunk and door. The issue turned out to be the Lexus security system. It wouldn't let the car start if it "suspects" its the wrong key. So the flat key turned but at first did not start the car UNTIL we placed the Original Key NEXT to the ignition. Prior to that we opened and closed the driver side door 3X. In all fairness I'm not sure if that actually did anything to "reset" the security system, but I was willing to click my heels three times and sing Happy Birthday if that would've worked.
We are now using this "Flat Key" as The key, and I am praying it will continue to work, because a new Lexus key is nearly $1,000. Not sure if there is a work around for that. If anyone knows, please let me know!
Good luck!
Tried the hammer, the WD40, wiggling, it didn't work. The original key still opened the trunk and door. The issue turned out to be the Lexus security system. It wouldn't let the car start if it "suspects" its the wrong key. So the flat key turned but at first did not start the car UNTIL we placed the Original Key NEXT to the ignition. Prior to that we opened and closed the driver side door 3X. In all fairness I'm not sure if that actually did anything to "reset" the security system, but I was willing to click my heels three times and sing Happy Birthday if that would've worked.
We are now using this "Flat Key" as The key, and I am praying it will continue to work, because a new Lexus key is nearly $1,000. Not sure if there is a work around for that. If anyone knows, please let me know!
Good luck!
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