Originally Posted by gtownsend
First off, you guys are all my heroes!
I started having this issue months ago where the key locked up and wouldn't turn. I could move the wheel and key together enough and finally get it to turn. Then it actually went away for months. Now it's come back and is completely toast this time.
I'm reading the PDF and looking at the pictures - it looks like several of you have done this yourself. I don't know anything about my car outside of how to change a headlight or wipers. Still likely I could pull this off myself?
I was towed to the dealer and quoted north of $1700 for parts, keys and labor. Clearly that is out of control and not something I'm looking to consider if some of you have had locksmiths fix it for $70!
What's the longest it took anyone here to follow this tutorial and complete? I hate to be nervous about doing this myself, but I can't talk myself into parting with 2 grand just over my fear! Has anyone tried the tutorial and NOT been successful?
Thanks in advance!
Gwen
Fairfax, VA
04 xfire 100k mi
Depends on the situation. If you can get it to position 1 it's easier, if not grinding the pin down can be a huge PITA. I tried a drill on the street where it died with no luck, got it towed home and used a dremel and that did the trick. If you have to grind plan on taking a couple hours, even if it took you a whole day it's still worth it vs the dealer cost. It's not too complicated, positioning yourself in there to work on it may be the hardest part minus that evil pin.