I have a 2000 Dodge Neon ES. Ever since I bought the car newin 1999 the key has periodically gotten stuck in the ignition. What will happen is the car will drive fine and shift normally (it is an automatic) but when it comes time to shut off the car and remove the key, it will not come out, or move down into accessory mode (it will turn off though). In order for me to get it out I have to drive it around and repark it all over the place until it finally decides to let the key go. Well, up until recently this was simply annoying. Now, it has changed. Frequently the ignition switch will not let the car turn on. I will be able to remove the key, but the ignition will lock up like it did before but not allow the car to start. The other night I was stuck in a parking lot until 2 am until I was able to finally get the ignition to turn. Other then this the car has been great with no other major problems. I had this looked at when the car was under warranty, but of course the dealer found nothing. Even when I switched dealers. Anyone have any ideas? Thank you very much everyone!

 

mybe your car did what mines did , mines was driving horrible like wanting to stale at a red light and i have a 05 and for a week it did that gething worse so i was *** it i took to the dealer and they test drive it around and it said it had no problems everything was find i thin your and mine car was scared to go under the knife lol

dunt take it to a dealer take it a shop near by or call a mechanic that comes to your house to check it out?

 

Anyone think that if I replace the ignition lock cylinder itself that it would help? If so are they difficult to replace? Thanks again.

 

you will have to

 

bevin zx3 you own a bimma?

 

Check the ignition switch too. I have not personally played with the neon one but my focus has PRNDL switch that allows the ignition switch to release all the way so the key can then come out of the cylinder once it is fully back. You may not notice right off because it is not very far off. You may check that angle too. Not saying it is done the same way just a thought.

 

Is the PRNDL switch the same as the neutral safety switch? If so is it difficult to replace?

Nope. Don't own a bimma. The ZX3 in my name is because of my other car, my Focus, which has it's own set of problems too. Thanks for the help. I'll look into the switch.

 

did you check the stering wheel wen its in the wrong position it locks the igintion!!!

 

The steering wheel will still move. It doesn't lock unless I turn it too far, which I did the other night. That wasn't fun, trying to get the key to turn and having a locked steering wheel. I think I will contact my local dealer in the morning and get a quote from them on a new ignition lock / barrel. Online it says it is about $85. The car has a programmed key. I imagine it will come cut to my VIN. Anyone know if I can install that myself? I read up on the neutral safety switch (PNP) and found that it normally shows signs of needing replacement when the car will start in gears other then park. Seeing as though my lock won't even turn, I think it's the lock.

 

Ok-lets get a few of the obvious things out of the way....is it a brand new or old key? Have you even cleaned your locks or ignition. I know that may sound dumb but you should use lock cleaner in all your locks and ignition as part of your regular "tune up" routine. I know i keeps my keys in my pocket set them down on the bar at work, etc. all that crap gets on your keys and into your locks and they start to not line up correctly. I had this exact problem. If this doesn't work a locksmith can come out on location and replace the ignition "barrel" and set it up to match your current keys. Keeping everything one key and and costing a whole lot less than the dealership. Sometimes the barrels crack. Also-is it possible that you have a faulty ignition switch?[/align]