I have a similar problem. Once in a while I can't turn the key to the start position. I have found that turning the key towards the acccessory position first releases the key cylinder. Apparently this is a quirk of the '99 windstar. Carl
The ignition lock cylinder on a 2006 Chevy Cobalt is removed by popping off the steering column cover and inserting a screwdriver into the release hole. The cylinder can then be pulled from its housing and replaced.
remove the shroud covering the steering coloum and turn the key to the on position push in release pin over ignition and pull cylinder out.
there is a small pin you can see through the plastic on the steering column in front of the ignition. you insert the key and push the pin to release the cylinder. you may need to remove wheel to get to it though.
Check to see if there is a small hole in the bottom of your steering column cover , if there is rotate your ignition lock cylinder to the run position and push a small punch ( or something that will fit through the hole ) to press the release
The first thing to try is to turn steering wheel left and right while trying to turn the key. If the key was turned off and the steering wheel was in a turned posistion, there could be pressure on the wheel and that stops the key from turning-- it will feel locked and jammed. Release preassure from key by turning wheel each way while turning key.
switch removal1. disconnect negative battery cable2. remove the steering wheel3. unplug the wires from the switch, remove the bolts and lift switch off steering column ignition lock cylinder removal1. disconnect negative battery cable2. remove the steering wheel3. remove the knee bolster and steering column cover screws4. separate the steering column covers and pull the upper cover up for access to the lock release tab5. with the key in the acc position, depress the release tab, then pull the lock cylinder straight out and remove it from the steering column.
New AnswerUsing your current key, insert it into the ignition & turn the ignition to the "On" position but not the "Start" position. Do not start the truck. Next, using a very small screwdriver (preferably a Phillips head) insert it into the hole located under the ignition key cylinder on the steering column.Pressing upwards with the small screwdriver or nail, you will press in the release button.Firmly grip the key & ignition cylinder while pressing up on this release button & remove while in the "On" position.Insert your new ignition cylinder with the key in it, into the "On" position until it snaps in place. Going in, the release button does not need to be depressed.You now have a Cylinder key, that will not match your door lock keys!Best of luck.
(1)Remove the steering wheel, steering column cover and steering column shrouds; (2) turn the steering lock to the On position; (3)insert a 1/8" diameter wire, punch or small screwdriver into the lock cylinder housing and release the actuator pin while pulling on the cylinder. Installation is the reverse of the removal steps. - Mazda Pickups Repair Manual
My boyfriend and I just did this in his Ford E150. You have to remove the steering wheel (several autopart stores rent steering wheel removers). From there you can see the ignition switch. The ignition switch cylinder is about 4 inches long, and projects into the steering column. All you have to do is press a small tab, then pull out the ignition switch. New ignition switches (with keys) are available at autopart stores. I suggest looking at a picture of the switch before attempting to find the tab yourself. BETTER ANSWER You do not have to remove steering wheel. on the bottom of the steering cover there will be three screw holes and a second smaller hole under the switch. with a pocket screw driver on similar device you can push the tab to release the switch.
Remove the steering column shroud first. Then you will be better able to find it. It is a small hole on the underside of the steering column housing, right under the area where the lock cylider is. You will need to use something very small to push the pin. The ignition lock cylinder has to the key inserted, and be turned to the "run" position before the pin will release and allow you to remove the lock cylinder.
Insert the key into the ignition. Push the release/switch button at the bottom of the cylinder, and pull the cylinder out.?æ
If the steering wheel is in a certain position, the ignition switch will not release the key. You can turn the steering wheel slightly while removing the key.I think it will work.