Technical Ignition key hard to turn.

[M4TipoMan]

Been using the bargain Tipo for a week or so now and it's great. But, the ignition keys have become really difficult to turn.
They're the right keys as both are the same, they both work fine in all the other locks and the filler cap - but in the ignition barrel itself whichever one I use it just jams as though it's the wrong key, then after a few attempts simply clicks and sort of frees itself, and turns.
Is this common and can it be fixed?

 

[Davren]

Some WD40 in the Ignition lock barrel may help but if the key is tight and then suddenly turns, it would suggest the tumbler plates in the barrel are worn. If you try the WD40, be careful not to get any on the pedals.

Dave.

 

[M4TipoMan]

Thanks Dave.
Already tried the lubricating option and if anything that's made it worse!
Guessed it was a knackered lock, just wondered if it was a specific known problem and if there was a quick fix/tweak.

 

[maddogmorg]

i had a problem on my old tipo which was caused by a worn key, a new one worked fine.

 

[M4TipoMan]

How was it in the other locks Besbie? Mine are ok in the doors and filler cap, hence I reckon it's in the ignition barrel that the problem lies.

 

[maddogmorg]

How was it in the other locks Besbie? Mine are ok in the doors and filler cap, hence I reckon it's in the ignition barrel that the problem lies.

not sure but i think the ignition was worst. for the sake of a few quid it's usually worth while. though if your keys are already quite new you may have to look into replacing the locks/ignition barrel which would cost a bit more.

is it just when first putting the key in, or getting it out again as well?

 

[M4TipoMan]

It's only when turning it "On" if you like.
It's like the steering lock is engaged even if it isn't.
Taking the key out again is no problem.

 

[maddogmorg]

in that case it sounds like it may be the steering lock as such. try turning the steering wheel so it's not resting on the steering lock, if you get what i mean? then it should turn ok.

 

[M4TipoMan]

No, no, that's what I mean. It's got the same feel as though the steering lock is being held, even though it isn't. I was using the steering lock comparison simply to describe how it feels.
The steering lock isn't stopping it.

 

[M4TipoMan]

Quick update:
On closer inspection it appears the spring-loaded lock barrel is being pushed a fraction of a millimeter too far in to the column.
If I very gently go to pull the key out of the ignition as I turn it, hey presto, no resistance and it turns normally!
Call it an anti-theft feature.

 

[5abr3]

Quick update:
On closer inspection it appears the spring-loaded lock barrel is being pushed a fraction of a millimeter too far in to the column.
If I very gently go to pull the key out of the ignition as I turn it, hey presto, no resistance and it turns normally!
Call it an anti-theft feature.

Also an anti-tired driving feature, if you're too tired to remember, you can't drive it for your own safety

 

[M4TipoMan]

Another quick update:
Got a new key cut and although the locksmith was doubtful it'd make any difference as the new key would be identical to the old (including any wear) it worked a treat and now turns without any resistance.
Result!