97 Outback igintiton problem

[Lori]

Hi, intermittently, when I put my key in the ignition, it won’t turn
to start the car. If I take the key out, and re insert, after fiddling
with it a bit, the car starts. Is there anything I can spray in the
ignition, or around it to free it up, or what else can be done. It has
only done this about twice in the last 7 weeks, but it makes me
nervous. Thank you in advance for any advice you can give me. (the car
runs fine otherwise) (best car I’ve ever owned)

One other question--if the ignition key was wearing out, could that
cause this to happen? I’ve had the car 10 1/2 years and have used the
same key all that time. Thank you.

 

[Blair Baucom]

Try the other key. Keys can wear. If you have the code for the key another
can be cut.

Blair

 

[AS]

Lori:

I am assuming that you are aware that if the steering lock engages, you
will need to rock the steering wheel left and right to free it. The
rocking may require some effort.

If it is the lock itself, I would try squirting a lil electronics
cleaner in the keyhole first.

Good luck!

 

[Lori]

Thank you--that was a really big help. I had forgotten about the
steering wheel anti theft locking, whether the wheel is locked or not.
DUH!!

Many thanks, A