cylinder key lock

[omega0407]

Hi !
Guys!
I have a DI,97 automatic.
the cylinder key is lock, I can put the key in and I can take it out, but I can't turn in.
I can't start the car the cylinder is lock.
What can I do?

 

[Mark]

I had a similar problem and first checked whether I actually had the Rover in Park and it 'felt' like it was in park.

I took some CRC Electrical Contact cleaner and squirted in the cylinder. Whoa! Appeared to be a mistake as the key 'felt' like it was locked in the cylinder. I finally got the key out.

I then took some computer air cleaner and sprayed in the cylinder until it was dry and then squirted in some key graphite lock fluid. Success, I was able to easily insert the key and turn the Rover on.

I think I was lucky and really do not recommend this sequence but it may work.

 

[DMS3Reno]

Does that year have the steering wheel lock?
Sometimes the way the wheels are turned when I turn it off puts
tension on the steering wheel lock which gives the same symptom.
I have to pull a bit one way or the other on the steering wheel while turning the key.

 

[paxton]

I've had this problem (99 D1). As state above, clean the hell out of it. I used all sorts of stuff once I'd removed the cylinder from the steering column. (You can do that by the way. And starting it is easy with a screwdriver!)

But clean it out. It will work, eventually...