keymclean

Today my key wouldn't turn in the ignition, not even to close my windows. I tried everything, and after about 30 minutes I heard a click, and it started. I drove home from the store, where I was, and upon shutting it off, it wouldn't turn again. In my garage I continued to turn the key, step on the brakes, tap the key with a tool, turn the wheel had while turning the key, nothing....about 40 minutes of trying later, it started again. Turned it off, then nothing. Please help if you might know what the problems might be. I do have a mechanic coming tomorrow to look at it, he is making a house call but I thought i'd get some extra insight online now. Thanks!!

BlueIntegraBoy

iTrader: (5)

Like you are not physically able to turn the key? Or you can turn the key and you don't hear anything?

g0rg0n

Kinda sounds like your key is worn out. You will either need to go to the dealer for a new one or go to a locksmith. I would call both before going to see witch one will cost the least. GL

jasoncrashtech

try moving the steering wheel a little while you turn the key.

nemisish20

Go to the nearest honda dealership and order a new igniton. Shouldnt be more than a hundred bucks. Then just take a phillips head screwdriver and pull the lower colum cover down and disconnect the wires on the ignition and plug and play!

keymclean

The key will not physically move, like something is locked up. I can hear a clicking at times, and if i just sit there and keep trying the key, turning it over and over again, it might start. But no it does not turn at all. any help would be great

keymclean

I have two keys, original and new key, both USED to work fine until today. Never had a problem before with the ignition. Both keys will not turn, and like I said, if you play with it long enough it has started, twice. ???? what's up?

NOFX

I had a similar issue once, but I think that was because the key I was using was new. Using an old key that had worked before finally worked. It was really hard to get the key out of the ignition though.

I was later told that had I used sand paper on the new key, it might have ended up working fine. Btw, the new key worked fine in the door lock.

Perhaps your lock cylinder is worn out? I know they get weird when things start wearing down sometimes. You should be able to get a lock cylinder used and get it re-tumbled.

Inliner

might be like the guy above said the steering lock might be malfunctioning as well.

try turning the wheel slightly while also trying to turn the key.

NOFX

*BUMP*

Btw, I think you meant EK or EJ coupe probably.

DOHCturbo02

I'm a licensed locksmith of 7 years serving the LA and O.C (sokal) area and a honda enthusiast. The symptoms your describing sounds like you might have a bent wafer in your ignition cylinder or your key is in really bad shape. Here's a quick way 2 tell if its an ignition or key related problem. Step 1. Try your key in your driver side door lock. Your key should turn the lock smoothly. Step 2. Try your key in the passenger side door lock and trunk lock.
If your key worked all of these locks smoothly, you have an ignition related problem most likely caused by a bent wafer in your ignition. This is a common problem with most hondas of that year and can be fixed relatively easy for an average locksmith. My store charges around $125 - $175 to fix this problem and it usually takes a couple hours 2 fix.
If your key does not turn these locks smoothly, it sounds like you have a key related problem. Reason: Your driver side door lock and ignition receive the most use out of all your locks and usually wear at the same rate as your key. Your passenger door lock and trunk lock at best get light usage and usually will be in a like new condition compared to your ignition/driver side door lock/ & key. Locks in new/good condition don't work well with old worn down keys. How do you solve your key related problem? Get a Key by Code. A key by code is basically a key blank cut down 2 the factory spec positions and depths for your car. How do you get your key code? If you take your current registration or pink slip for your ride to your local honda dealer along with a photo I.D, they should be able to give it to you. Expect to pay around $10 dollars for the code. For Most Hondas from the 80 to early 2000's. Your key code will be 4 digits. You can then take this code to a local locksmith and have him/her make you a factory spec Key By Code for around $20 or less. If going to the dealer is not an option, there are a few other ways to get your key code. If you still have your OEM key that came with your car, there should be a 4 digit number stamped on your key. That is your key code. If thats not an option, your last resort will be to take out your passenger side door lock. Your passenger side door lock will have your 4 digit code stamped on its casing. NOTE: your key code is stamped ONLY on your PASSENGER SIDE DOOR LOCK! not your driver side or trunk or ignition lock!!! 4 some reason, all Japanese cars have this system in place with the key code stamped on the passenger side door lock.
I hope this helps you out and good luck. If you have any more questions about this topic just message me back or email me at greg@aviationlock.com