For a few weeks now the key won't turn the ignition unless I wiggle it several times then it will turn and start. Sometimes I can get in and it works the first time. I've used the same factory key and there's nothing wrong with it as far as being bent or anything. I noticed last night that if I move the key side to side slightly as I turn it the key most of the time will release whatever's inside and work. I assume there's something inside the ignition that isn't releasing/engaging or whatever when the key is inserted. Can someone tell me what the problem is and hopefully a fix? I also tried some stuff for locks to help free them up.

Thanks.

 

the ignition switch needs to be replaced.

How to replace it on a 4th Gen, as an example if you need to replace it
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ykT9uCJXSY

 

I watched the video and it seems pretty easy. I changed out my blinker switch one time to install my front fog lights, so this shouldn't be much harder. I didn't see how he removed the wires from the old switch and put them on the new one. I also saw where someone took a rubber hammer and tapped the end of the key while it was in the ignition and the key turned. I guess it broke something inside the switch allowing the key to turn. What's your thoughts on tapping the key with the rubber hammer?
Thanks for your help.

 

Don't lock the steering wheel if that is happening and try wiggling the wheel when you turn it.

This seems to happen on a lot of nissans LOL. It happens on my Z32 and multiple maximas that I've driven. The cylinders never needed replacing, but they didn't behave as bad as yours.

 

My son was using the car today and I told him before I left for work to move the key slightly side to side as he turned it and he said that worked good. I never lock the steering wheel unless it's by mistake and we tried moving the wheel but nothing seemed to help. I'll just keep moving it side to side if that continues to work, or I'll just eventually replace the ignition switch if that's the problem. Thanks for the reply.

 

It could also be that the key itself is worn. The small bumps that operate the tumbler can wear down. That's what happened on my 97.

 

Could it be your gearbox?

I occasionally have to put the car back into P before the car lets me remove my key