The key will not turn at all in the ignition of my 1992 Toyota Corolla (stick shift); the mechanism seems to be completely frozen. Yesterday, I did finally get it to turn and start with a lot of steering wheel jiggling and repeated efforts. However, as soon as I turned the car off, the problem happened again, and when we tried to push it into a parking space with the car in neutral, the steering wheel locked and would not turn while I was trying to steer. Any thoughts? If I can get it started again, is it safe to drive to a mechanic, or should I have it towed? I am afraid that the steering wheel might lock up again... any thoughts on what the problem might be? Thanks, Mari

Maricat,

More than likley, your steering wheel is locked. Try rotating you wheel side to side and then try to rotate your ignition key.

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Originally Posted by Maricat

The key will not turn at all in the ignition of my 1992 Toyota Corolla (stick shift); the mechanism seems to be completely frozen. Yesterday, I did finally get it to turn and start with a lot of steering wheel jiggling and repeated efforts. However, as soon as I turned the car off, the problem happened again, and when we tried to push it into a parking space with the car in neutral, the steering wheel locked and would not turn while I was trying to steer. Any thoughts? If I can get it started again, is it safe to drive to a mechanic, or should I have it towed? I am afraid that the steering wheel might lock up again... any thoughts on what the problem might be? Thanks, Mari

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I think it sounds more like the ignition lock cylinder has worn out and is in need of replacement. If you can get it to turn, it should be safe to drive. Call around for a locksmith to see if a locksmith can come by and fix this for you.

I have already tried moving the steering wheel around, and that does not seem to be unlocking the ignition or correcting the problem. Will try calling some locksmiths and see what they have to say... thanks!