2000 Intrigue key switch

[peted66]

I went out to start my car the other day and the key would not turn in the ingnition switch. It acted like it was the entirly wrong key. Tried my wifes key and no luck either. Never had any problems before and I have 114,000 miles. Played around with it for about 15 minutes and then it turned and all has been fine since. Has anyone had a similiar problem? I'm a little concerned that I may go somewhen are not be able to start the car if thei haapens again.

Thanks for all suggestions!

[Circle]

This happened to me, not in my '99 Intrigue but in my wife's 2000 Chevy Malibu. It was not because the steering wheel was turned almost to the lock, in which case a little jiggle of the steering wheel while turning the key will free it. I think it was a stuck tumbler in the lock mechanism. A little silicone spray (just a little) seems to have worked to keep it from happening again. Best technique is to spray in the lock, insert key, turn to "acc" position then back to off, remove the key and wipe it dry. Repeat three or four times. Good luck.

[Rolm]

Spray the lock with WD40 and that should fix it.

[jwallace]

1998 Intregue key switch problem. I moved the vehicle yesterday and all was well. I went to start it this AM and the key would not turn. I tried both sets with no results. I sprayed some WD and still no results. I am in Park and the wheel turns, hard without pwr steering but will turn. I never noticed if the wheel should lock in place, anyway can someone advise?

[gawrycht]

JWALLACE,

I have had the same problem with my '01 Intrigue .... twice! Both times the ignition cylinder was bad and had to be replaced. It had to be towed and the cost each time was around $400.
I contacted GM Cust. Serv. after the second switch (it went bad at 55,000 miles past the first...) and they refused to do anything about it because it was "not under warranty." I also talked to another '01 Intrigue owner with the same problem. Both times the key "stuck" one day, worked fine for a couple weeks, then wouldn't turn at all. Apparently there is a problem with the ignition cylinders on this vehicle. I can't say that's the case for all Intrigues but it sure sounds like it for the '01. Up to you whether or not to replace it if you can still get it to turn but if you don't be prepared to be stranded at some point.