Frozen ignition switch
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
From: CA
Frozen ignition switch
The ignition switch on my 2000 GS400 froze. Couldn't turn the key at all.
Lexus wanted $250 for a new switch and about $250 to install it.
I went to a locksmith and he told me he could rebuild the switch for $45 if I brought it to him.
It's a long story, but I got the switch out with some instructional help from him.
He "replaced some wafers", and it worked fine for about 30 days, then froze again. He says it may be something else other than the switch itself, but can't say what it might be. The fact that silicone frees it up leads me to believe it's not related to anything else like the steering wheel lock.
Has anyone had this problem?
Thanks for your help.
Lexus wanted $250 for a new switch and about $250 to install it.
I went to a locksmith and he told me he could rebuild the switch for $45 if I brought it to him.
It's a long story, but I got the switch out with some instructional help from him.
He "replaced some wafers", and it worked fine for about 30 days, then froze again. He says it may be something else other than the switch itself, but can't say what it might be. The fact that silicone frees it up leads me to believe it's not related to anything else like the steering wheel lock.
Has anyone had this problem?
Thanks for your help.
Pole Position
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 360
Likes: 0
From: TX
Only experience with that is the steering wheel lock. It does strick me as odd that lubricants free it up enough to work. If you have a second master try using that, just in case the keys cut groves are wearing down and not engaging the tumblers properly. Good Luck
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
From: CA
Lexus wants something like $200 or $250 for a spare.
And yes, I know if I lose the only one I have, I have to buy a new computer at $1400. I'm just very careful with the one I have.
Anyway, the locksmith said the key looked good. I'll just put it back in and keep a can of silicone spray in the trunk for emergencies.
Buy a blank key online, and take it to your local Lexus dealer.
I just did so, and they cut the key for me, as ACE hardware told me they couldn't cut the key because it was a special product, and only Lexus has the essential equipment to do so.
The cost was roughly 35$ so in total, you could get a new key for around 40-60$ if not cheaper!
Good luck!
I just did so, and they cut the key for me, as ACE hardware told me they couldn't cut the key because it was a special product, and only Lexus has the essential equipment to do so.
The cost was roughly 35$ so in total, you could get a new key for around 40-60$ if not cheaper!
Good luck!
Pole Position
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 300
Likes: 6
From: TN
You can get a blank with transponder very cheap on eBay. I did, got the blade cut at a local locksmith for about $30. Then programmed it myself using the instructions from this forum. Worked like a charm and saved a ton of money.
nbart has a good point. Is your steering wheel locked? If the steering wheel is locked rock it back and forth while you turn the key. Does your key work in the door? Years ago my steering wheel locked and I couldn't turn the key freaked me out. After I calmed down I noticed the steering wheel was locked
Last edited by lexo98; Jan 8, 2014 at 07:28 PM. Reason: Add
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