Thread: D1 ignition barrel not turning

If it's a parts car then just remove the whole steering lock assy.


You'll need a centre punch to remove the screws or just drill them out if you have room.

Originally Posted by Lockee

Hi just got a parts car and ignition barrel won't turn. Steering has now locked. Any tips

Have you tried giving the barrel a few sharp blows with a screwdriver and hammer. It can free up the mechanism and then squirt some WD40 in there and see how it goes. Some will say WD40 is a no no though but it's kept my key turning for the past 18 months after seizing on me. Might be all you want to do for a parts car anyway.

If you are removing the lock from the steering column you can use a dremel to either cut the bolts or cut screwdriver slots in the bolts to enable you to undo them.

The problem is usually burrs on the leaves in the lock barrel which you need to file and polish off.

It is quite doable DIY but if you haven't taken locks apart before it's good to have someone show you how the first time.

Leave the key in the lock barrel to retain the pins until you are ready to disassemble it.

It is a regular job for locksmiths and they're used to doing it but they will empty your wallet a bit


BTW - nothing wrong with using a little bit of WD40 in the lock barrel - whatever you do don't use graphite ....(like people used to do in padlocks)

I used to use a hacksaw to cut slots but dremel will be quicker , i was told by a locksmith not to use a liquid lubricant and to use graphite which i did in my ignition 8 years ago with no problems since.

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Mine locked up a couple of years ago. I remove the lock mechanism and took it to a locksmith. They ended up spraying a cleaning fluid into it (not WD40 and not carby cleaner). I can't recall what it was called though but I was think it was inox something. Anyway, a lot of rubbish was flushed out of the lock mechanism and the key would turn. Never had the problem since then.