Hi all

P38A 1999 4.6HSE

I have the dreaded ignition key sensor switch issue that means car thinks key in ignition and central locking disabled.

I've tried wiggling it and WD40ing it to no avail. Well it works for a day then reverted.

Anyone know how to remove the key barrel in order to clean it up and lubricate it?

Thanks in advance.

WD or any liquid will only make it worse, dust etc sticks to it !! Open the key hole and try drying it out (thin gauze, cloth on a pin). Best solution is then Graphite powder, best lube for any key lock, tip onto key blade and wiggle in lok a while to work it in.
When it appears ok, do it again after a few days, should then stay gooda long while!

Ref removing it. You need to remove the knee roll. Then remove the guard around your steering column. Unbolt the steering wheel hight adjuster from the lh side of column. Using very small posidrive screw driver remove the 2 small screws holding ignition switch from the bottom of the barrel. Undo electrics from ignition. With key in barrel turn to key position 1. You will see on the barrel shaft a small hole. Press something solid into this hole and wiggle ignition free. This part is the tricky part, patience required to get it out. To refit, retrace steps.
Award yourself medal and relax.

Thanks all, will give it a go this weekend

Ridesafe said:

WD or any liquid will only make it worse, dust etc sticks to it !! Open the key hole and try drying it out (thin gauze, cloth on a pin). Best solution is then Graphite powder, best lube for any key lock, tip onto key blade and wiggle in lok a while to work it in.
When it appears ok, do it again after a few days, should then stay gooda long while!

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If you fancy one last try before you strip it all out you can make your own graphite powder. The 'lead' in a pencil, rubbed on a fine file, makes a lovely lock lubricant. You don't need much, but one of those wide carpenter's pencils makes it a bit quicker and easier.