I just bought a 2005 Crossfire and I'm having trouble getting the key to turn to start it. It seems like it's a common problem. I read in the forum that it has something to do with the steering wheel lock. Someone posted that if leave the key in the ignition that will solve the problem. Of course you don't want to leave the key in all the time but does anyone know for sure if that will work until I can try the fix for it?

 

First, the sticky key happens because the wheel has been turned with the lock engaged. Rock the steering wheel and it should come loose and turn

To prevent the problem do not use the steering wheel as a hand hold when exiting the car.
There is a very long thread , over 1000 postings, onthis problem
https://www.crossfireforum.org/forum...ru-2006-a.html
to fix the problem try this linky.
https://www.crossfireforum.org/forum...key_fix_v5.pdf

 

I believe most Crossfires (especially those built before '06) came with an ignition switch that is doomed to failure (internal break). That is why there is so much here on the sticky key fix. Leaving the key in will not fix anything and I've read that doing so, for an extended period, may even foul up your security system.

 

Thanks for the information.

 

Agreed on all counts. The fix was in late 2006 models - 07s and 08s were built without the offending parts.
Fixing this is easy if done before it locks up completely.

Once it locks up completely, drilling is needed - I am happy to help with pre-emptive repairs, but once it locks up, please ask Greg or Dave or Bob or George for help....

 

What do you suggest? So far It's been working ok with the key left in but I can't keep pressing my luck. The previous owner said he took it to a Chrysler dealer because he couldn't get the key out and they removed the spring inside that holds the key. He said he didn't have a problem since, but I started having problems as week after I bought it.

 

Anyone - Is replacing the ignition switch with one for a 07 or 08 feasible? What all is involved in replacing the switch. I assume a new switch will require a new set of keys, possibly a new SKREEM, and so on. This could get pretty involved, and pricey, unless a new switch can be re-tumbled for our existing keys. Boy, one little sticky, hard to turn switch can really mess up a good car! Comments?

Jim

 

I would try the sticky key fix, dealers lie, tell half truths and do anything to get you to go away.

 

Replacing the switch is fairly easy and doesn't affect the tumbler, keys or SKREEM.
First, remove the cylinder lock housing as you would for the Sticky Key Fix.
The actual switch attaches on the back of the cylinder lock housing with 3 screws.
However, if you are replacing the cylinder lock housing AND the switch, just re-use your existing tumbler and Bob's your uncle (as my Aussie bride would say).
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw...gnition+switch

 

Thanks for all the help.

 

chooch - Thanks for the information. Makes it sound easy. Do you know if the 2007 or 2008 switch will work in a 2005? Previous threads sound like those two years have different parts in them.

Thanks,

Jim

 

What is the problem that requires a new switch?
Are you getting your part names mixed up?

 

The switch is the same for 04-08 models
Here is the Mercedes Benz part for SLK320 (R170): 2025450104

or, the more expensive MOPAR part : 5098721AA
They are the same, but Chrysler jacks up the price for German parts.

 

Maybe I am reading his posts wrong, this is the first time he has asked about the switch and it is in s sticky ignition switch thread. He mentions different part numbers where did that come from? I think he means change the housing itself for a later modified one, that is not cheap if you buy new.
I could be wrong but .....

 

Item 15 below is the ignition switch that attaches to the ignition switch cylinder housing.
Item 16 is the ignition switch cylinder housing (the part the Sticky Key Fix repairs).

 

He mentions tumblers, new keys, SKREEM etc I think he is thinking of replacing the housing and has the names wrong.
Back in the day the key went into a switch not a housing with a halo etc.

 

180 - I'm referring to post 5 by "pizzaguy". He refers to different parts in late 06 for the 07 and 08 models. I believe he said best to change them BEFORE the problem comes up.

Jim

 

That’s what I thought, it is not a switch though, he is talking about the ignition switch housing and not the switch itself. The switch may come with the housing I cannot say. That housing is expensive and that is why people fix the one they have, the mod makes it identical to the expensive new part, because that is all Mercedes did to fix the problem.
He does not advocate changing the part just modifying it as outlined. You would have to take the housing out to replace it with a new one, but five minutes work would make it identical to the new part, you just take out a spring and a little item.

 

Thanks 180. Sounds easy enough, hope it is! I'm thinking a little preventive maintenance might be good.

Jim

 

NO! I did not say to change ANYTHING.
I said your best bet is to simply do the "Sticky Key Mod" and do it TODAY. No parts needed.

In every case like this that I have encountered, simply doing the "sticky key" mod resolved the issue.