Impreza - Ignition Locks

[Joe Lee]

I own a '97 Impreza with 107,000 miles, which has been an
exceptionally fine automobile for me. But more and more
frequently, I am unable to turn the key in the ignition,
especially if I have not straightened the wheels out before
I turn the car off. This happened a couple times in the first
few years, but has happened several times this winter.
I have to straighten the steering wheel as much as I can and
reposition the steering column. I do something different each
time it seems and eventually, I am able to get it started. But
it is a major annoyance. Any ideas on how to remedy this will
be appreciated.

--- Joe ---

 

[dnoyeB]

I own a '97 Impreza with 107,000 miles, which has been an
exceptionally fine automobile for me. But more and more
frequently, I am unable to turn the key in the ignition,
especially if I have not straightened the wheels out before
I turn the car off. This happened a couple times in the first
few years, but has happened several times this winter.
I have to straighten the steering wheel as much as I can and
reposition the steering column. I do something different each
time it seems and eventually, I am able to get it started. But
it is a major annoyance. Any ideas on how to remedy this will
be appreciated.

--- Joe ---

Does it do this with both keys? If so its time for a new lock.

--
Thank you,



"Then said I, Wisdom [is] better than strength: nevertheless the poor
man's wisdom [is] despised, and his words are not heard." Ecclesiastes 9:16

 

[Larry Van Wormer]

I own a '97 Impreza with 107,000 miles, which has been an
exceptionally fine automobile for me. But more and more
frequently, I am unable to turn the key in the ignition,
especially if I have not straightened the wheels out before
I turn the car off. This happened a couple times in the first
few years, but has happened several times this winter.
I have to straighten the steering wheel as much as I can and
reposition the steering column. I do something different each
time it seems and eventually, I am able to get it started. But
it is a major annoyance. Any ideas on how to remedy this will
be appreciated.

--- Joe ---

The lock may well be worn, but I'd try some lubricant first, as being
much cheaper than a new lock. A shot in the keyhole would possibly help,
but likely the best way to lube it would be to remove the steering
column covers and get some lube into the area between the lock and the
steering column, so the steering lock would operate more easily.

I'm not familiar with Subaru design in this area, but lubing other makes
of car as suggested has really helped.

Larry Van Wormer

 

[thomashanno]

I have the same problem with my 97 Outback. I find that the easiest way
for me to get it started every time is to insert the key and twist in
one fluid motion, but don't pause once the key is in all the way...play
around with the speed, but not too slow, and not really fast.


It sounds stupid, but it seems to work for me.

 

[Joe Lee]

Thanks for the feedback. I will try lubrication. I have
tried different keys with the same result. I have also
noticed that pressing more lightly on the key as I turn
it sometimes works. Strangely, I never have a problem
when I just pull straight into a spot in a parking lot.
It seems to happen when I've had to do more maneuvering
to get into a spot and then turn off the engine. Don't
know why this is the case.

--- Joe ---

 

[Larry Van Wormer]

Thanks for the feedback. I will try lubrication. I have
tried different keys with the same result. I have also
noticed that pressing more lightly on the key as I turn
it sometimes works. Strangely, I never have a problem
when I just pull straight into a spot in a parking lot.
It seems to happen when I've had to do more maneuvering
to get into a spot and then turn off the engine. Don't
know why this is the case.

I would think that's because the lug that locks into the steering column
is sticking when it's engaged, if there's a side load on it. If there is
no tension on the steering column, as when you pull straight in, it
would not likely stick.

Larry Van Wormer

 

[Bugalugs]

I would think that's because the lug that locks into the steering column
is sticking when it's engaged, if there's a side load on it. If there is
no tension on the steering column, as when you pull straight in, it
would not likely stick.

Larry Van Wormer

What he said

When you've turned/manouvered to get into the space you've left the
front wheels in a "turned" position i.e. not straight ahead. The
selfcentering will be trying to turn them straight. When you remove the
key and it locks the steering it leaves the 'lug' under tension. When
you return, if you attempt to turn the steering wheel it will unload the
tension on the 'lug' and allow the key to turn.

 

[Theodrake]

What he said

When you've turned/manouvered to get into the space you've left the
front wheels in a "turned" position i.e. not straight ahead. The
selfcentering will be trying to turn them straight. When you remove the
key and it locks the steering it leaves the 'lug' under tension. When
you return, if you attempt to turn the steering wheel it will unload the
tension on the 'lug' and allow the key to turn.

And can be especially difficult it you leave a tire touching a curb. The
weight of the car on the wheel can make it even more difficult to relive
the tension. Which of course you are taught to do if you park on a hill.

Had a Mercury Villager that I parked like this. Not only was it
difficult to turn the ignition it also made it difficult to get out of
park. Dealer warned us to make sure we apply the emergency brake before
taking foot off of brake pedal.