The ignition switch locks itself once in a while. The most time I spent trying to unlock it is 5-10 minutes, just by turning the wheel one way and another and trying to turn the key. I mean I could just turn on the car turn it off, I dont even move it from the parking position. I try turning it back on and wont even turn the key. Any suggestions?

 

Wiggle the steering wheel when turning the key?

 

Thats what I do to start it up, but I want to know should I take it to the dealer, or just buy the ignition switch and replace it? But then what about the keys since we have the chips in them.

 

It may be a worn key, ignition tumblers or a combination of the two.

 

I've had this problem twice now as well.. it's rather annoying. Is there a component failing or just a security device? (i.e. steering wheel lock type thing) Very strange

 

It's a failure of one of the security devices. Meaning it's either the key, the ignition or the steering lock mechanism. All three are parts of the cars security system.

 

well that's a bother.. thanks for the info teddie

 

The same thing happened to me with my '98 Quest every time the weather got cold and I see you live in IL. Try some graphite lubricant into the key hole. Hope that helps.

 

crappy to say but i see this quite alot, 97-00 max's have a problem with the ignition lock cylinder wearing out. take it to your shop of choice, have um replace the cylinder and iether rekey it for your existing key or get a new key se. until you do be carefull not to brake your key.

 

brake = a device for arresting or preventing the motion of a mechanism usually by means of friction : something used to slow down or stop movement or activity

break = to separate into parts with suddenness : violence or VIOLATE, TRANSGRESS <break the law> <break a promise> : to disrupt the order or compactness of <break formation>

 

is there anyway to hotwire itI took apart the housing for the steering wheel, Not it just wont turn so I need to replace it. Nissan quoted me 175, but will take 2-3 weeks to get in so. I want to know another alternative to get it on just to go to work. Anyone, is it even posible to hotwire it, since it has the chip in key.

 

can a mod lock the thread I found my answer, I have to replace it.

 

you can delete the thread by deleting your first post

 

The 00 Maxima's have poor ignition systems.

I had the very same problem you described, and one fine morning it got all locked up. Had a locksmith come and repair the stuff and paid him $200.

One suggestion that he gave me was quite interesting, don't have any keys with the key bunch other than the ignition key. I used to have my home key, work key(s) etc and this puts a lot of stress on the already weak ignition switch.

 

your a loser do you not have anything better to do than follow me around maxima.org and try and find peoples typos

 

That would be "you're a loser," not "your a loser."

Stop being so paranoid. You make it too easy.

 

^ lol


I've heard this too.. I always use my spare key which has it's own ring with the remote, to start the car. Not stricly to protect the ignition, I have other reasons.