Hi all -

I have an 02 TL-S. Yesterday I noticed that while removing my key from the ignition it was "sticky" - for lack of a better term. I don't mean it literally felt sticky like tape, but that it was slightly difficult to remove from the ignition once it was about halfway out.

The key looks fine.

Now as I'm typing this I realize I need to go try another key to see if it's the same, but I'm still not sure what would be wrong with this one, or how to fix it. If it was a lock in my house I would just squirt some graphite powder in there. As silly as it sounds - are you OK to put this in an electrical car ignition?

A quick search through the archives didn't find me anything. Hoping I don't have to replace the entire switch.

Thoughts appreciated - thanks!

 

Bump....

Anyone know if it's safe to put graphite powder in the ignition? WD40? Another better product? Problem is happening with all keys....

Thanks!

 

I would use a tiny bit of graphite powder. Ive used it in the past on ignitions and it worked.

 

Wouldn't a light silicone lube be a better alternative - because of the electronics?

 

Turning the key is a mechanical operation, not electrical per se. Closing the contacts on a relay or whatever does not mean electricity is going thru the key(thank god). Graphite is fine as far as getting a shock or shorting something out is concerned. Using WD40 or other lube could cause problems down the line since it will hold dust, dirt, lint from your pocket, (maybe cookie crumbs? ) etc.
Sounds like you might have already introduced foreign matter into the ignition slot since all keys are showing same symptoms. Not sure if it would work but I would try one of those inert air sprays that are sold for computer and TV contacts and circuitry etc. Radio Shack, Circuit City, Best Buy etc. JC

 

Not necessarily like stated above, those types of sprays while they do lube they also tend to allow more dirt to collect and actually create stickiness after awhile.