2005 Dodge Durango - Over the last few months the ignition in my Durango has been giving me problems. I am in process of replacing the ignition lock. I have removed the steering column shroud and am attempting to turn the key to the ACC position in order to slide out the ignition lock. The problem is that the ignition lock is frozen and the key will no longer turn. I am open to any suggestions as to how to get the old lock out so I can install the new one. The steering wheel is NOT locked.

Thanks

 

My steering wheel would lock and the key would be useless and a lot of swearing and pulling would finally let the key turn. It would usually unlock after fighting it a while and then I could turn the key. One day it would not budge and I had to pay a locksmith $300.00 - $400.00 to build my ignition as the vehicle was stuck at my work and luckily I was not out in the middle of nowhere. No problems since and it has been two years with the rebuilt ignition.
FF

 

Go to the hardware store and get a plain round head key cut for it. Use a medium sized hammer and tap the head of the key to un-jam the tumblers temporarily. I know here we charge 25 bucks to build the new lock cylinder.

REMOVAL

1. Disconnect negative cable from battery.
2. Remove the steering column opening cover
   
   
3. Remove the tilt lever handle.
4. Remove the lower shroud (2) from steering column.
5. Place shifter in PARK position.
   
   
   The ignition key (2) must be in the key cylinder (1) for cylinder removal.
6. A retaining pin is located at side of key cylinder assembly.
   1. Rotate key (2) to RUN position.
   2. Press in on retaining pin with a small punch (3) , while pulling key cylinder (1) from ignition switch.
   
7. Remove the key (2) and key cylinder (1) from the column (3).

 

I ended up drilling it as the lock mechanism was completely frozen. Thanks.