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Monday, January 12, 2009
2002 Chevrolet Silverado, Ignition Key Will Not Turn
I have a 2002 Chevy Silverado 1500, 4wd, 5.3 engine. The problem is the key will not turn the lock cylinder so I can start it. Can you give me some ideas?
Can you remove the key from the lock cylinder? If so remove the key and spray some light lubricant in the lock cylinder and try some more. Do you have a spare key to compare for wear? Once you get it turned on you will want to replace the cylinder. You can find instructions on the blog on how to remove. The same basic procedure is used for mid 1990's through mid 2000 Chevrolet and GMC trucks.
In order to change your lock cylinder you will have to get the key to turn on at least once. You will need to wiggle and jiggle (tech terms) :) the key while trying to turn it on. It may take a few tries or you might have to try off and on for hours. As soon as you can crank it, move to vehicle to where you will be working on it and slowly turn the key off so that the engine will stop running. DO NOT TURN the key all the way off. Disconnect the battery and turn the key all of the way back on and leave there until you have the steering column covers off. There is an access hole in the top of the cylinder housing in which you have to depress the cylinder retaining pin. The key has to be turned to the full crank position in order to depress the pin.
You can locate the locking bar on a replacement lock cylinder, Find the corresponding area on the old lock cylinder and drill a hole through the housing (make sure you will not be drilling through electronics). You may be able to take a hammer and a punch and drive the locking bar back into the cylinder far enough to get it to turn. KEEP IN MIND THAT ONCE YOU GO DOWN THIS PATH ,YOU CANNOT GO BACK. If it does not work out you will have to replace the lock cylinder housing and related parts as well as the lock cylinder. I STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRYING FOR A LONG TIME TO GET THE KEY AN LOCK CYLINDER TO TURN ONE MORE TIME!!!!!
Someone tried to steal my 2000 silverado at first we couldnt turn the key but we forced it and it turns and fires up just fine problem is I can not get it out of park....any ideas?
Check for a blown fuse, check the shift interlock solenoid and it's linkage. Check the stoplight switch and related wiring that also releases the shift interlock solenoid.
We had AAA come out to help and there is a "pin" that we can press in the gear shift area and it will shift, but its difficult and I can not do this everytime I drive it, im broke(like a lot of ppl) and just really want a fix until I can take it to a mechanic...does this help with identifying what the problem may be? thank you so much
Thank u so much! So I called out AAA and they got the truck in gear by pusing in a "pin" type part in teh sifter area but I put it back in park and it locks again...does this help maybe identify the problem? thankyou
Unfortunately there could be a lot of things. Do the dash warning lights come on? Does the security light come on or flash? Does the battery seem dead? Headlights / dome lights bright or dim? If you have more info please send it to me at sparkysanswers@gmail.com
I have a 2002 Silverado 4.8 liter. The Red battery light stays on all the time in the instrument panel. My temp guage cut out as well as the ac/heater. The Ac/heater control unit is brand new, the battery is brand new, the alternator is tested and working fine. New transmission, motor is like new. Sometimes im able to tilt steering wheel and get light to go off, but when I go to turn heater or AC back on i hear a click and the red battery light comes back on. Any ideas? I was told it was my ignition switch?
I have a 2002 chevy silverado I can turn the key and start the truck but it sticks if I jiggle the key it will evening turn anything I can do to make it turn smoothly or does it need to be replaced how tuff is it to replace the ignition switch
Check the key first to make sure it is not worn or damaged. If you have a spare new key try that first. There are also some lubricants available but I would plan on replacing the faulty lock cylinder. I am including a link address to a post I did on a very similar repair. You will need to copy and paste the address.
Hi again Sparky! My 02 Silverado has a similar problem - I have to jiggle the key to get the switch to turn, and it's gettin worse. I can remove the key. I have a spare (copy) with no wear; I noticed that the copy's a little bent, but it works better than the factory key, but only in one direction.
Is graphite OK to lube the switch for now? And I guess I should replace the switch soon, huh? Can I get the switch re-keyed to match the doors, or would I have to replace whole lock set for that?
I don't think this is related, but I have another problem - after it's the truck's been sittin a few hours, it won't start on the first try unless I open the throttle. Cranks like a champ on the second try, every time after that. Any ideas?
Try getting a new key cut by the key code and not just a duplicate key made. A locksmith or dealer can do this. I would not recommend graphite. If the problem is within the tumbler assembly, grit will already be an issue. I would use a light lubricating spray. I would however try a new key first. Yes if the tumbler/lock cylinder is replaced it can be keyed to the original key or your new key cut by the code.
Two ideas and it really depends on how it feels. 1. Leaking fuel pressure diaphragm that is dumping fuel into the intake.
2. Internal fuel pump fault that is allowing the fuel pressure to drop while the truck is sitting. Eventually the fuel rail will be siphoned dry and the result is an extended crank time. If this is the cause it can be tested/overcome by cycling the key on and off a few times, ten to twenty seconds each position. This will allow the fuel pump to function and build pressure in the fuel rail. If this is the cause you will not need to open the throttle to start.
Thanks again, Sparky. I found a locksmith who's cuttin me some new keys to factory specs; gonna give that a try. Since I've been usin my spare (all metal) for about a week, I've noticed the key feels a little hot when I turn the truck off...of course it is about 108 degrees here in TX, but the cab is cool...
Strangely, the first-time-starting issue hasn't been a problem since I've been usin the spare...maybe just a coincidence.
Sparky ~I have an 01 silverado and the ignition cylinder will not turn. I have tried multiple keys, multiple times, jiggled, wiggled, etc. I have tried for hours on multiple days to get the stupid thing to turn but it just wont. It never really had any trouble before it just refused to turn 4 days ago. Would replacing the housing along with a new cylinder be the next step? I am fairly certain i will be able to find the part locally at a junk yard as i live in the metro detroit area.
I have a 2001 Silverado and when I turn the key to start the truck sometimes it works with no issues, however, other times nothing but lights. If you jiggle it and try a few more times it works fine. I suspect that the issue is the Ignition lock, but wanted to confirm before spending money, thoughts?
i know this is old, but i am having the problem that the key won't turn. i looked up a new tumbler, but all i've found are ones that come with keys. how do i get a tumbler that fits the same key as the doors? thanks
I am not sure if anyone sells it uncoded. Easy enough to overcome though. A dealer parts department or a lock smith can recode the new lock cylinder to fit the original key. They are more willing if you purchase the lock cylinder from them.
I have a 2002 avalanche. The key was stuck and wouldn't turn. I eventualy got it to turn, but now, when I turn the key to the off position, the truck keeps running. Any ideas? Can a bad key cause this? Thansk!
It kind of depends on what you had to do to get the key to turn off. My initial thoughts would be something is broken inside the lock cylinder housing. The key itself would not be the problem. The key only turns the lock cylinder. The lock cylinder through mechanical linkages turns the electrical portion of the ignition switch.
34 comments:
Can you remove the key from the lock cylinder? If so remove the key and spray some light lubricant in the lock cylinder and try some more. Do you have a spare key to compare for wear? Once you get it turned on you will want to replace the cylinder. You can find instructions on the blog on how to remove. The same basic procedure is used for mid 1990's through mid 2000 Chevrolet and GMC trucks.
Thank you. I can remove the key and am now soaking it with wd40. Both keys do not work.
Again thank you,
Walt
In order to change your lock cylinder you will have to get the key to turn on at least once. You will need to wiggle and jiggle (tech terms) :) the key while trying to turn it on. It may take a few tries or you might have to try off and on for hours. As soon as you can crank it, move to vehicle to where you will be working on it and slowly turn the key off so that the engine will stop running. DO NOT TURN the key all the way off. Disconnect the battery and turn the key all of the way back on and leave there until you have the steering column covers off. There is an access hole in the top of the cylinder housing in which you have to depress the cylinder retaining pin. The key has to be turned to the full crank position in order to depress the pin.
My 02 silverado has the exact same problem but i can not get it to crank. Any other way to fix the problem?
You can locate the locking bar on a replacement lock cylinder, Find the corresponding area on the old lock cylinder and drill a hole through the housing (make sure you will not be drilling through electronics). You may be able to take a hammer and a punch and drive the locking bar back into the cylinder far enough to get it to turn. KEEP IN MIND THAT ONCE YOU GO DOWN THIS PATH ,YOU CANNOT GO BACK. If it does not work out you will have to replace the lock cylinder housing and related parts as well as the lock cylinder. I STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRYING FOR A LONG TIME TO GET THE KEY AN LOCK CYLINDER TO TURN ONE MORE TIME!!!!!
Someone tried to steal my 2000 silverado at first we couldnt turn the key but we forced it and it turns and fires up just fine problem is I can not get it out of park....any ideas?
Check for a blown fuse, check the shift interlock solenoid and it's linkage. Check the stoplight switch and related wiring that also releases the shift interlock solenoid.
We had AAA come out to help and there is a "pin" that we can press in the gear shift area and it will shift, but its difficult and I can not do this everytime I drive it, im broke(like a lot of ppl) and just really want a fix until I can take it to a mechanic...does this help with identifying what the problem may be? thank you so much
Thank u so much! So I called out AAA and they got the truck in gear by pusing in a "pin" type part in teh sifter area but I put it back in park and it locks again...does this help maybe identify the problem? thankyou
Im sorry to bother you again i believe you are correct i think its the Shift interlock solenoid...is there a way to bypass or disengage this?
Start by checking your stoplights for proper operation. If the stoplight switch or fuse is faulty the shift interlock will not work.
have a 02 silverado my key turns but will not crank got any ideas of what to do
Unfortunately there could be a lot of things. Do the dash warning lights come on? Does the security light come on or flash? Does the battery seem dead? Headlights / dome lights bright or dim? If you have more info please send it to me at sparkysanswers@gmail.com
my warning lights come on but it will not crank.
Locate the crank fuse in the fuse box and check to see if it has power on it while trying to crank the engine.
I have a 2002 Silverado 4.8 liter. The Red battery light stays on all the time in the instrument panel. My temp guage cut out as well as the ac/heater. The Ac/heater control unit is brand new, the battery is brand new, the alternator is tested and working fine. New transmission, motor is like new. Sometimes im able to tilt steering wheel and get light to go off, but when I go to turn heater or AC back on i hear a click and the red battery light comes back on. Any ideas? I was told it was my ignition switch?
It would be highly likely that the ignition switch is at fault.
I have a 2002 chevy silverado I can turn the key and start the truck but it sticks if I jiggle the key it will evening turn anything I can do to make it turn smoothly or does it need to be replaced how tuff is it to replace the ignition switch
Check the key first to make sure it is not worn or damaged. If you have a spare new key try that first. There are also some lubricants available but I would plan on replacing the faulty lock cylinder. I am including a link address to a post I did on a very similar repair. You will need to copy and paste the address.
http://www.sparkys-answers.com/2008/11/2001-chevrolet-silverado-ignition-lock.html
Hi again Sparky! My 02 Silverado has a similar problem - I have to jiggle the key to get the switch to turn, and it's gettin worse. I can remove the key. I have a spare (copy) with no wear; I noticed that the copy's a little bent, but it works better than the factory key, but only in one direction.
Is graphite OK to lube the switch for now? And I guess I should replace the switch soon, huh? Can I get the switch re-keyed to match the doors, or would I have to replace whole lock set for that?
I don't think this is related, but I have another problem - after it's the truck's been sittin a few hours, it won't start on the first try unless I open the throttle. Cranks like a champ on the second try, every time after that. Any ideas?
THANKS AGAIN MAN!!!
Try getting a new key cut by the key code and not just a duplicate key made. A locksmith or dealer can do this. I would not recommend graphite. If the problem is within the tumbler assembly, grit will already be an issue. I would use a light lubricating spray. I would however try a new key first. Yes if the tumbler/lock cylinder is replaced it can be keyed to the original key or your new key cut by the code.
Two ideas and it really depends on how it feels.
1. Leaking fuel pressure diaphragm that is dumping fuel into the intake.
2. Internal fuel pump fault that is allowing the fuel pressure to drop while the truck is sitting. Eventually the fuel rail will be siphoned dry and the result is an extended crank time. If this is the cause it can be tested/overcome by cycling the key on and off a few times, ten to twenty seconds each position. This will allow the fuel pump to function and build pressure in the fuel rail. If this is the cause you will not need to open the throttle to start.
Thanks again, Sparky. I found a locksmith who's cuttin me some new keys to factory specs; gonna give that a try. Since I've been usin my spare (all metal) for about a week, I've noticed the key feels a little hot when I turn the truck off...of course it is about 108 degrees here in TX, but the cab is cool...
Strangely, the first-time-starting issue hasn't been a problem since I've been usin the spare...maybe just a coincidence.
Sparky
~I have an 01 silverado and the ignition cylinder will not turn. I have tried multiple keys, multiple times, jiggled, wiggled, etc. I have tried for hours on multiple days to get the stupid thing to turn but it just wont. It never really had any trouble before it just refused to turn 4 days ago. Would replacing the housing along with a new cylinder be the next step? I am fairly certain i will be able to find the part locally at a junk yard as i live in the metro detroit area.
Thank you for your time.
~woj
Please read through some of the later comments I made at the following post. Copy and paste the address.
http://www.sparkys-answers.com/2008/11/2001-chevrolet-silverado-ignition-lock.html
None of my interior lights and even my cargo light will not come on. I have a 2002 chevy silverado 4x4. Wth??
Start simple. Have you checked the dome override switch on the headlight switch assembly?
I have a 2001 Silverado and when I turn the key to start the truck sometimes it works with no issues, however, other times nothing but lights. If you jiggle it and try a few more times it works fine. I suspect that the issue is the Ignition lock, but wanted to confirm before spending money, thoughts?
Check the voltage at the crank fuse while the problem is present.
i know this is old, but i am having the problem that the key won't turn. i looked up a new tumbler, but all i've found are ones that come with keys. how do i get a tumbler that fits the same key as the doors? thanks
I am not sure if anyone sells it uncoded. Easy enough to overcome though. A dealer parts department or a lock smith can recode the new lock cylinder to fit the original key. They are more willing if you purchase the lock cylinder from them.
hi I have 01 silverado a broke the key so I replaced the cylendsr but it still wont turn or nothing
What kind of lock cylinder did you use, new or used? Can you remove the lock cylinder?
I have a 2002 avalanche. The key was stuck and wouldn't turn. I eventualy got it to turn, but now, when I turn the key to the off position, the truck keeps running. Any ideas? Can a bad key cause this? Thansk!
It kind of depends on what you had to do to get the key to turn off. My initial thoughts would be something is broken inside the lock cylinder housing. The key itself would not be the problem. The key only turns the lock cylinder. The lock cylinder through mechanical linkages turns the electrical portion of the ignition switch.
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