1998 4runner ignition key problem
 

Hi Folks,
The wife drove home today in her 1998 4runner without problems but when I went to start the car, the key only turns about 1/2 way but wont go any further and doesn't start. When I have the key in its 1/2 way position, the steering wheel unlocks, radio comes on but can't operate the windows. The car is in park and I tried jiggling the key etc with no luck. I have 3 ignition keys for the car and all are doing the same. Any thoughts on what to do next?
TIA,
Tom

Have you tried powdered graphite to lubricate the lock? It's amazing stuff freed alot of locks with it.

Thanks Brian for the quick reply. I tried today Powder graphite and had a new key cut from VIN at a Toyota dealer hoping it would be a quick fix but the key still only turns half way without starting the car. Any thoughts how to proceed next to troubleshoot and hopefully get it started?
TIA
Tom

Sounds like your ignition cylinder is worn out. You can try using pliers on the key to give you extra oomph, otherwise the only way I've been able to get the cylinder to turn is with a flat blade screwdriver and a crescent wrench on the screwdriver shaft. This will obviously destroy the cylinder so you'll need a new one.

Thanks again Brian. We're getting a snow storm today here in CT and was running out of time as the wife needs to go to work on Monday. A local mechanic that was recommended came by and loaded it on the flatbed and will replace the tumbler. $191 for parts and labor and another $70 for towing. If there's no hidden surprises, I'm happy with the cost to get it running again.
Regards,
Tom

Hopefully this will solve your problem. My family has 4 3rd generation 4Runners and we've had to do the cylinder replacement on 2 of them.

I replaced my ignition cylinder last summer after sporadic fits of working fine and not working at all off and on for a couple years. I bought an OEM cylinder and it came with a new key, was around $80 or so. I put it in myself, just had to take the covers off to get to the old cylinder, turn the key (if you still can) to the ACC position, push in the little detent on the cylinder, and pull the old one out. To install, slide the new cylinder with key to ACC into the slot, replace covers and drive away! :) While the new cylinder was on order I actually drove around with no cylinder in the vehicle, just turned on and off with a pair of needle nose pliers. It seemed pretty ghetto but worked until the new one came in.

The only inconvenience is that my door locks are keyed to my old key and the ignition is keyed to the new key. I'm glad I replaced the cylinder though, nothing like being stuck helpless in a car you KNOW works but just can't get to run because the key won't turn another 1/8"! :lol"