2000 alero, kid was driving it, turned off ignition, went to start it, now the ignitionlock won't turn, seen similar post but no answers. Anyone have any ideas? thanks

 

Hello, Just wanted to post I am having the same problem. OEM key will not turn the ignition lockset. I suspect a failed lockset, but with all of the anti-theft electronics it could well be something else. Has anyone had experience with this problem on a 2001 Alero and repaired it?Diagnostic help, R & R steps torepair would be appreciated. Thanks Keith Waldron

 

The Passlock systemcannot prevent the ignition lock from turning. It only senses whether the correct key is inserted.


Sounds like what you said, a worn out lock. If you have one, try a key that isn't worn down very much.

 

while you are trying to turn the ignition are you also trying to turn the steering wheel??

 

Hello everyone, and thanks for your help. We have tried first not touching the steering wheel or the auto trans shift lever after 5 min of touch and feel attempts with the OEM key it would not turn. I put in two puff's of powdered graphite designed for locks, still nothing after another 5 min of various key movement techniques. I then attempted moving the steering wheel, nothing, then attempted the shift lever reposition, still nothing. I came back out a couple of hours later and put a shop vac on the lock sucked out the graphite lube thinking I had put too much in, still nothing. I read that there was suppose to be a release pin or hole to release the ignition cylinder lock.As I was looking for it I pressed evenly on the outside trim ring several times and pressed and held the trim ring in, then as if by magic the key lock rotated with a catch but allowed me to start the car. I cycled the the lock about 5 times, put one more puff of graphite in it. After two days of use there is no catch and it works fine.


There is slop in the lock core fit up to the key.You know the old saying "if its tight its right"I spoke to a couple of local locksmiths and learned that these GM dashboard mount locksets are prone to premature wear, (80,000 miles on this one) One contributors is a key ring with a lot of keys, or jewelry items that is fairly heavy. It seems that this extra weight is a contributor to premature wear.Yep you guessed it the girlfriends car keys weigh about 1\4 pound, well maybeI ama little overboard, but still---I was quoted $250 to 300. here in Minneapolis, MN for a locksmith to come out and replace the lock cylinder with a key that matches the door locksets. If they can get the lock to turn it is a fairly easy repair, if it locks up they literally tell me they find it quicker to drill out the lock cylinder. The Delco lock cylinders are available here with new keys for about $120.00 aftermarket, mail order through Rock Auto for about $103.00 plus shipping of $6.00.Dealer price was nuts, something like $200.00 plus for the Delco lock set alone.Rather than fight this we plan to shop a little more for a reputible locksmith. Take the Alero to him and leave it a few days sohe can fill up some blank spots on his calender and cut us a deal. Knowing what I know now we plan to have have the lock cylinder replaced with a new one. I prefer to do my own work, but I have run out of time and the weather is getting too cold to take a chance on this going down and getting stranded. I suspect All DATA has a step by step to R & R this but for now everything is pointing to a worn out lock cylinder. We are going to have locksmith replace this one on our terms.


FYI if you have any electronic problems, such as a speedo or electronic climate control. David Ruberg Winona, MN DIGITALGUY_1@CHARTER.NETis a great guy. MY digital dual zone climate control died killing the heater, defrosters etc on my 1999 intrigue. New was over $400.00 used 110.00 Dave got mine on a Wednesday, shipped it backthe next day for $80.00 with a 7 year warranty. He makes these things better than new. I find that Delco somtimes saves a nickle on a component part, or saves a penny or two on solder, again premature failures. Dave just adds solder where he sees them break, replaces the weak parts and failed parts.Sometimes he has rebuilds on the shelf, other times you have to ship him yours for a rebuild. Dave treated me very very well. This Forum is a great place, really lucky to have to oppourtunity to get some help and direction. Thanks Keith Waldron

 

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Our 02 is acting up as well- starts and drives fine, however when shutting off the car, the key does not go fully to the off position, but stays between the off and acc (1st click) position, leaving the dash lights on. We can also remove the key in any position too.


there sure does seem to be a lot of really "cheap" components on these cars... from the ignitions and the window reg's to name a few.


GM should take care of these issues. All the OE replacement/aftermarket parts are manufactured to be just as cheap too. frustrating!
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