Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
Bill T.
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
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Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
Bill T.
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: Milton, Ontario, Canada
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Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
Here's the location for the pin. Just in case. It was hard for me to find. I am guessing you already know where it is. Though just in case.
https://www.crossfireforum.org/forum...tml#post744978
Last edited by ijaved; 05-20-2015 at 04:32 PM.
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
Thanks for the advice. I bought a dremel tool and completely removed the locking pin off. I removed the assembly and opened the hatch with a hammer and a screwdriver. The spring came flying off but i saw no pin anywhere. Theres just a whole where the spring would go. I put everything back together and inserted the key and its still stuck and wont move. 
You didn't see this.... Once the "hole where the spring would go" is removed you are good to go.
Here is the pic with the spring and pin still in....
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
Just finished installing a new ignition/steering lock unit on my 2004 coupe according to the "Sticky Ignition Key Fix" PDF in the "How To" section of this site. Many thanks to the guys who contributed to these instructions as I couldn't have done the job without them. Problems I ran into: I had to use channel locks to turn the black ring around the ignition switch which was unfortunate because I scarred up the ring, but luckily it's out of sight. I also had trouble pulling the electrical connector off of the back of the unit. After a few choice words and thrown tools (and a beer to cool off), I was able to grab it with a large pair of 90-degree forceps and finally wiggle it off. When re-installing the lower panel, I couldn't start the screw at the upper right side that goes into that little tunnel. I hate to have parts left over from a job, but I just couldn't get this one started...frustrating. To check my work I tried to start the engine before I buttoned up everything (and before re-installing the transponder ring). After a minute of panic accompanied by visions of tow trucks, I realized that the transponder ring needed to be installed before the car would start. Great joy when everything was put back and the key turned smoothly in the ignition. This is a finicky under-dash job (especially for someone with my 250-pound girth) that can get frustrating. I recommend that you take your time, not force anything, and closely follow the instructions on this site.
My Crossfire has had all the normal problems, but I've been able to fix them all (and save $1,000's) thanks to this great forum. Besides fixing the sticky ignition key, I was also able repair my limping transmission (new electro-hydraulic plate & connector), repair the relay module, and get rid of an errant low tire pressure light. This forum should be mandatory reading for all Crossfire owners.
My Crossfire has had all the normal problems, but I've been able to fix them all (and save $1,000's) thanks to this great forum. Besides fixing the sticky ignition key, I was also able repair my limping transmission (new electro-hydraulic plate & connector), repair the relay module, and get rid of an errant low tire pressure light. This forum should be mandatory reading for all Crossfire owners.
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
I just finished installed a new ignition lock unit in my '04 coupe. Happy to say that key turns smoothly now. I have one question. Is the job of the spring-loaded pin (located at the column side of the clamp with the unit installed) merely to indicate that the unit has been fully inserted in the steering column? Or, does it have something to do with the operation of the locking rod and/or the key position? What exactly does it do? Should I ever have to do this job again, I wonder if simply removing the pin would solve the sticky key problem
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
I just finished installed a new ignition lock unit in my '04 coupe. Happy to say that key turns smoothly now. I have one question. Is the job of the spring-loaded pin (located at the column side of the clamp with the unit installed) merely to indicate that the unit has been fully inserted in the steering column? Or, does it have something to do with the operation of the locking rod and/or the key position? What exactly does it do? Should I ever have to do this job again, I wonder if simply removing the pin would solve the sticky key problem
Last edited by zip439; 05-27-2015 at 08:02 AM.
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
No, I didn't remove the pin. I installed a new ignition lock unit. From what I've read on this thread, it seems that it's the pin that causes all the problems. I wanted to see if someone cold explain exactly how the pin functions and how it eventually causes the key to stick. The original ignition lock unit in my 2004 coupe lasted more than 10 years before it became a little sticky, but not to the point where I couldn't drive the car. It was just getting annoying, so this was a preemptive repair. If this new one lasts ten more I'll be happy. The fact the the pin pops out at the steering column side of the clamp when installed indicates that it's also used as a positioning mechanism. In any case, I wanted to know more about this mechanism.
I am not that big a gambler, I removed mine so I don't go through the frustration of being stranded or having to fix it in some parking lot. It would be nice to get a report from someone why buys the new assembly to know if MB removed the suspect parts or not and the part number without the suspect parts.
Re: Sticky Ignition Key Fix for all Crossfires 2004 thru 2006
I don't think there has been a definite explanation as to what parts do what and why. We are not talking about removing the "pin" that "pops out." We are talking about removing the internal pin and spring. Do you have your old assembly? Did you remove the cover plate and look inside?