steering wheel locked and key won't turn?
03-15-18, 11:26 AM
#31
Driver School Candidate
Join Date: Mar 2018
Location: NM
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
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.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
