I've looked at shoebox's replace the igntion switch guide. It looks like I'm replacing the ignition switch and connectors for sure.

I've had the other symtoms of a dying ignition switch already:

• Power cutting out while driving
• Key turns, but nothing happens (intermittent)
• Guage cluster going on and off while driving.

What I'm hoping to find out is if anyone be able to clarify if the following symtom is possible due to the ignition switch as well:

• The key physically won't turn.

Also the ignition key cylinder is fairly inexpensive, should I replace this as well while I have the steering wheel out? Thnx in advance, I'm hoping to order the parts asap now that I can't drive

 

Once you take the rod off of the ignition switch on the lower part of the column, operate the key cylinder to see if it moves freely. A faulty switch can often "lock up" and cause the key not to be able to move.

 

Awosome, I knew you'd jump in to help shoe Is replacing the cylinder a tricky thing to do at home? The part is fairly inexpensive and if its easy to do I'll just order the cylinder as well (one less thing to break down in the future)

 

I have not done a cylinder, but from what I have read, it does not sound that hard. You will need a steering wheel pulller (easily obtained from your favorite parts supply place).

 

one thing that i have had go bad is the ingniton panel. it's under the dash, for some reason i have burned out two of them in the 4 years i've owned the car. the first one went out slowly, like you're first symptoms, the second one left me stranded at summit in mcdonough. (not too bad til they closed haha)

i can't remember the exact name of it, but i think it's the ignition switch panel. it locks the barrel and keeps hte key from turning at all. check under the dash under the steering wheel for it

 

I think you mean the ignition switch.