i have a 2004 chevy malibu classic 2.2 and for about a week now the ignition keeps locking up I guess. the key will not turn unless I press the brakes and hold the gear shift button in and sometimes it still won't turn. Eventually it does turn and sometimes when other ppl try it they can turn it with no problem. Is there something I can do to keep from having to use an extra 10 minutes to sit in the car and work on turning it on?
mave133
Favorite Answer
It sounds like the tumblers are starting to stick on the ignition. You can replace it. When you move stuff to rattle it just a little you can get it. But replace the ignition switch and you should be fine. Any parts store should have it on hand.
Tweakers
I have a 2006 Honda that would do the same thing to me. I asked my Honda guy, and he said that some cars are made where the front wheels must be straight ahead or the ignition won't work. I used to just leave my wheels however they were whenever I pulled into a parking spot, but now I make sure I straighten them before I turn off the car and I've never had that trouble since. Give it a try, and good luck!
Z F
...Or your key is just worn. That tends to happen when you take it in and out of the ignition 16 times a day for 6 years...
Get a new key.
jeff WALKIN
make sure your not bumping your steering wheel befor you try and turn it on