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CabooseSA · Joined: 14 Jul 2011 Posts: 18 Location: Virginia

I have started and used the car a few times today and no problems. Then tonight, all of a sudden, the key would not turn the ignition. In the past I've been met with resistance, but I just try a 2nd time and it works. But this time, the key would not turn the ignition.
I read online that sometimes when the steering wheel locks the key won't work, and they said to pull the steering wheel while turning the key. That doesn't work, and the only way I could turn the key was if I tapped the cylinder with a hammer while turning it. But after the 4th or 5th time of that, the key won't turn past half way, and I can't start the car because of it.
I was hoping someone would know what to do or be able to help. Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Paul · Posted: Mon Dec 19, 2011 2:03 am Post subject:

This is usually caused by sticking tumblers. Try some graphite powder.
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White 87 924S "Ghost"
Silver 98 986 3.6l 320 HP "Frank N Stein"
White 01 986 "Christine"
Polar Silver 02 996TT. "Turbo"
Owned and repaired 924s since 1977
Porsche: It's not driving, it's therapy.

joecitizennn · Joined: 12 Sep 2005 Posts: 2096 Location: no mans land

also aftermarket key blanks are often softer than the original keys and the shape changes as they wear. After a while they can stop working on certain tumblers for no apparent reason. Would be interesting to know if you have the original key or a copy.
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87 924s
88 924SE gone
447 hp cgt clone
87 924S gone
84 944 sold
83 944 sold
89 turbo S LSD, ABS etc
86 951 white rocket
85 944 sport everything.
84 944 sold.
87 944 sold

nwns · Joined: 27 Sep 2008 Posts: 93 Location: Lancashire, UK

Only takes 20 mins or so to whip it all off, easy enough to get the barrel out if it's pre-drilled and I can give you exact locations to drill if it hasn't.
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Pete

CabooseSA · Joined: 14 Jul 2011 Posts: 18 Location: Virginia

It is an aftermarket key because the original was lost while moving. I have read about graphite powder working and am trying that soon. I have managed to get it starting my hitting a "sweet spot" on the bottom of the steering column right under the ignition. That works every time, but isnt exactly a permanent solution