I have a 1996 Camry LE with the ignition switch in the dash. About a month ago the key became very difficult to turn. For awhile if you jiggled it long enough it would turn and you could start the car. The other day I was at the grocery store and when I came back out it took 5 minutes of jiggling the key and cursing for the key to turn. I went to the local dealership and purchase an OEM key hoping that that would fix the problem. The new key will not work either. I have come to the conclusion that I have to replace the ignition switch cylinder. Can anyone tell me how to do this or give me a link that explains the process? Thank you in advance.

 

Might fix try using lock lube, a graphite lubricant.

Are you moving the steering wheel at the same time as turning the key?

To replace the lock cylinder you need to remove the steering console cover between the wheel and dash. There is a hole on the side or top of the lock housing the holds the lock cylinder. Insert the key, turn to ACC, use a probe to push a button in the hole, pull out cylinder.

This is a common issue. An internet search should find many hits.

 

The switch is not on the column it's in the dash. Do I still use the process you described? I already tried graphite

 

I already tried graphite.

 

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