Key will not turn, is it the cylinder lock or ignition switch?

2005 HONDA ODYSSEY
150,356 MILES
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BCMULLEN95
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It started a few days ago, I jiggle the key and turn the steering wheel until it turned. Now the key will not turn at all. I want to know if it is the cylinder lock or ignition switch. How can I check to find out? Tried lubrication and it is still won't turn. I can't find any other keys to the van just the one key. From the research I have done aren't these a common problem with the odyssey's and the whole cylinder lock has to be replaced?
Mar 22, 2012 at 11:44 PM
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FIXITMR
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lock cylinder problem is fairly common issue. you can get it repaired by a locksmith.

Here is a guide that might help you get the problem fixed.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ignition-switch-wont-turn-stuck

Please let us know what you find ;)


Mar 23, 2012 at 1:48 AM
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BCMULLEN95
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One of the tumbler was bent and a lock smith replaced the tumbler for $65. Cylinder lock now turns. Thanks for the help the site rocks!
Apr 3, 2012 at 9:42 PM
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DICKBYRNE9
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to do temp fix on ignition lock/key problems. Play with the steering wheel, shift lever and brake. any one could be defective but i suspect you need a locksmith for a permanent repair.
Apr 29, 2012 at 11:20 PM
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BCMULLEN95
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In regard to the tumbler one of the pins was busted and a locksmith repaired without any problems. Cast was about 75 for the locksmith to repair it.
May 16, 2012 at 7:16 PM
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CHICOJAZZ
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Can you as briefly but thoroughly instruct me on how to replace the Ignition Switch Lock Cylinder on this vehicle. I was able to remove the key finally. I'm convinced that the locking cylinder is shot.

Also, can I fit my actual ignition switch to the new locking assembly, or do I have to buy both, a new switch and locking cylinder? Which of course would mean now I'd have 2 sets of car keys for this vehicle, unless it's possible that a lock smith could change the tumblers in the new lock to match my existing key ?

peace & kindness, Charles
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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KHLOW2008
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Hi chicojazz,

To remove the lock cylinder, you have to drill the shear bolt out and with ignition key in " I " position, press the locking pin with a screwdriver to pull the lock cylinder out.

The ignition switch may be reused.

The tumblers may be rematched to use the original key but is not going to be an easy job.
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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WLIXGARY
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Key will not turn every time. Brake pedal is pressed down but key will not turn and wheel will not release. Then without doing anything different, the key will turn with ease and car starts. I heard that there is an issue regarding the brake light switch but the brake lights come on as designed.
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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The brake light switch won't cause the key not to turn. The brake light switch can cause issues with the vehicle not shifting from park once the engine is running.

I know this is going to sound crazy, but have you tried different keys? You can't believe how often keys wear out and people think it is something major wrong with the vehicle. Also, have you tried to lube the tumbler?
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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CHICOJAZZ
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Ignition key jams in the ignition switch and I can't turn the ignition switch on or off and can't remove the key. How do I replace it?
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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HONDA TECH 1818
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Remove the shift lock cover on the steering column top cover and put a small flat head screwdriver in the hole to release the shifter, shift the gears back and forth and back to park, then try to remove the key from the ignition. If it does work you will need to replace ignition lock here are the instructions and a guide that may help was well

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ignition-switch-wont-turn-stuck

Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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RANDY PROW
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Interior problem
2003 Honda Odyssey 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic

how to change ignition switch in 2003 honda odessey
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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BLUELIGHTNIN6
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1.Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable, then wait at least 3 minutes before proceeding to disable the air bag system.
2.Remove the lower panel of the dashboard.
3.Remove the knee bolster.
4.Remove the steering column covers.
5.Unplug the connectors from the under dash fuse block.
6.Remove the steering column upper and lower covers.
7.Position the ignition switch to the 0 position.
8.Remove the two screws that secure the switch to the mount.
9.Pull the ignition switch away from the mount.
10.Installation is the reverse of the removal procedure.
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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BRIAN MOLINA
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2003 Honwda Odyssey.m Ignition key does not turn
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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KHLOW2008
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If shaking the steering wheel does not solve the problem, the key lock cylinder is bad and has to be repaired/replaced.
May 23, 2020 at 12:08 PM (Merged)
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JVREPAIR
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I put a new ignition switch on it and is there any way to reprogram the new ignition switch. thanks
May 23, 2020 at 12:09 PM (Merged)
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WRENCHTECH
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The switch isn't programmed but the keys are. This isn't something you can do yourself. It will have to go to the dealer to program all the keys.
May 23, 2020 at 12:09 PM (Merged)