98 4RnR ltd

My ignition switch has started to stick every once in a while. I put the key in and it will turn some but refuse to turn further. If I remove the key and try again it will usually work normally after a few tries but seems to be getting worse. I have lubed the switch but that does not seem change anything. Older vehicles used to do this when there was tension against the steering wheel lock, but when the problem occurs, I am able to turn my steering wheel freely so that does not seem to be it. Any ideas before I pull the switch?

 

Tumbler probably went bad, you should take it apart and make sure its not something you can fix before you order anything.

My friends truck needs no key to work, he removed the tumbler.

 

I had that problem on a 98 Limited....it went on forever but I always seemed to get it to turn after a while.

 

mine was that way brand new. i had to replace it when i put a new steering column on, and it did that. it still does. im thinking i should get a genuine toyota one, but imma wait until it fails, then i can 'steal' my own truck by taking the steering column cover off, taking the cylinder out, and starting it with a screwdriver.

 

I had the same problem which eventually got so bad that I'd spend 10 - 15 minutes fiddling with it until it went. But before I changed out the tumbler and all that I got a new key cut from the OEM key code and all is well again! Works every time!

 

Get an OEM key cut from your keycode at the dealer and see if that helps.
Sometimes keys get badly worn or you make a copy of a worn key and the issue gets progressively worse.

 

Jiggle the key a little when you twist it, and jiggle the steering wheel, and also the gear shift(if it's an AUTO).

 

I have the whole switch assy from a 99 still attached to the column i will sell cheap!

 

Read this... https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/i...g-start-77907/

 

mike kinda sticks some time. did it in my honda too, i just giggle the key alot until it turns.

 

No amount of lube or jiggling the steering wheel was helping. The problem was simply that the original key was worn, although it isn't obvious by looking at it. I have been using my spare factory key for a couple of months now and it works perfectly every time.