removing ignition

[lakemanadel]

this morning i tried to start my car and the key would not turn. my2007 yaris has never had a problem. i tried different keys, same result. i took the steering wheel off and got to where i could unplug the electrical part from the switch and could start the car but the steering wheel is still locked. Does anyone know what my problem is? i can't figure out how to take the ignition out.can anyone help

[CTScott]

Are you saying that you can now turn the key to start it, but the wheel remains locked, or are you hot wiring it?

[CTScott]

By the way, to remove the entire ignition switch is a bit tricky. To make it difficult to steal the car, the ignition switch assembly is mounted with bolts that snap off when torqued, so you can't get a wrench on to remove them. Drilling or grinding them off is about the only way to remove them:

[lakemanadel]

I need to know how to take the lock cylinder out. The key won't turn.

[CTScott]

Originally Posted by lakemanadel

I need to know how to take the lock cylinder out. The key won't turn.

I just pulled the cylinder out of my test bench steering column. I thought you would need to remove the ignition assembly to do so, but you do not.

Unfortunately, even worse for you, you have to be able to turn the key to the "ON" position and then there is a metal pin that you press through a hole in the column. That allows you to pull the cylinder out about 1/4" with the key. Then, you have to remove the "key sense" switch connector from the column, and once you do, you can pull the cylinder out the rest of the way. The picture below shows the removed cylinder with the pin that needs to be pressed.



I think your best bet may be to get a locksmith involved.

[OTA'sTOY]

try shaking your steering wheel left to right and turn your key
if your wheel is stuck left try turning right and viseversa
this kinda a thing happens to alot of people

[CTScott]

Originally Posted by OTA'sTOY

try shaking your steering wheel left to right and turn your key
if your wheel is stuck left try turning right and viseversa
this kinda a thing happens to alot of people

I assumed he would have tried that already with even having removed the steering wheel, but excellent recommendation if he did not...

[lakemanadel]

i have heard of people drilling the cylinder out. is that an option. the locksmith around here said he can't or doesn't work on toyotas. if this is not an option will i have to replace the whole ignition

[CTScott]

Originally Posted by lakemanadel

i have heard of people drilling the cylinder out. is that an option. the locksmith around here said he can't or doesn't work on toyotas. if this is not an option will i have to replace the whole ignition

Before drilling the cylinder out I would try removing the ignition assembly to see if something farther down the line is jammed, as there is a cam assembly under the lock body that does the column locking. When I pulled the lock body out the column remained locked until I rotated that cam with a screwdriver.

[Nando1528]

Where I can find the "key sense" switch to remove the cylinder???

[JimKellyfan]

You have an 2007 model.
I would first try getting a key cut by the VIN.
Try that.
In the end, you may only need a key that isn't worn out.
I have seen this a time or two.
Make sure to go in the dealership with insurance and registration and license, so as to prove who you are and it is your car.
Then ask for a key cut by VIN.
Not a copy of a worn out key.
In the end, it is only the price of the key to try it out / take a look, if it looks wore out, it is.
My 2010, and my wifes 07, all 4 keys are about wore out.
Just noticed dates on original post, but may be helpful to someone.