Hey, Dusty from RepairPals Car Genius team here!
Firstly, gently turn the steering wheel left and right while simultaneously turning the key in the ignition to release the steering wheel lock, which might be causing the issue.
Check the key for visible damage or wear; a worn-out key might not engage the ignition correctly.
If you have a spare key, try using it to see if the problem persists.
Next, spray a small amount of electrical contact cleaner or a graphite-based lubricant into the keyhole.
Avoid using oil-based lubricants like WD-40, as they will attract dirt and worsen the problem over time.
Then, insert and remove the key several times to help distribute the lubricant inside the ignition switch.
A weak or dead battery could potentially lead to the ignition switch malfunctioning.
It's essential to make sure that the battery terminals are clean and securely connected.
If the battery is weak, consider jump-starting the vehicle to test if that resolves the issue.
If none of the above steps work, a professional diagnosis would be the next step; they can pinpoint the issue and may even be able to fix the problem without replacing the entire ignition switch.
If you have any other questions or would like help finding a RepairPal Certified shop in your area, call us!
877-913-1554
