Needing to wobble the key to get it into the ignition cylinder

[kawahonda]

Hello everyone!

One thing that's always been present with my '70 Challenger since I've got it is the need to rotate the key up and down (wiggle it) to get it into insert into the cylinder. I have tried putting some graphite powder and it didn't seem to resolve the issue. The key seems to pull out smooth and once it gets past that initial "hang" it seems to slide in really good.

Anyone else have this problem and know what the potential fix would be?

 

[Xcudame]

Some previous owner had a huge key chain with half a pound of keys on it and has worn it out! Live with it or swap out the ignition switch. Not to sound callous, but really that's your choices.

 

[kawahonda]

Ugh, was hating you'd say that I'd have to remove the lock cylinder. Is the graphic powder stuff the only thing I could try?

 

[Challenger RTA]

The key or the key way might be wore after 56 years. Try the spare key if you have one. Take the lock cylinder out. You might have to take it to a locksmith. It can be repined and a key made to match. Or go a head a get a new cylinder and have it re keyed.

I had six cars on the road at one time. I re keyed all of the to one key.

Now I break into houses and re key the locks. Lock are made to keep honest people honest. I keep people honest. If that doesn't work the police are called. Last week the un honest people called the police. They found out the last notice was past 60 days.

 

[Xcudame]

Here's a link of a member just replacing his entire ignition switch.

M

Thread 'replace ignition switch'

Jul 22, 2026

trying to replace the ignition switch...according to the shop Manuel the entire steering column has to be pulled. Is there another way????just went through loosening the column to link to new steering box. real pita

• michael bucklew
• Replies: 24
• Forum: Steering / Suspension

 

[cudamark]

Hello everyone!

One thing that's always been present with my '70 Challenger since I've got it is the need to rotate the key up and down (wiggle it) to get it into insert into the cylinder. I have tried putting some graphite powder and it didn't seem to resolve the issue. The key seems to pull out smooth and once it gets past that initial "hang" it seems to slide in really good.

Anyone else have this problem and know what the potential fix would be?

It might have a bad pin in the lock cylinder. As long as the cylinder isn't damaged, a new pin (or pins) should cure the problem. If the cylinder is bad, a new one is in order.

 

[pschlosser]

I fixed a sticky and finicky ignition key cylinder by cleaning it. I had to tear into the steering column to fix the turn indicator switch, so while I was at it, I removed the lock cylinder, took it apart, and cleaned it up. I was expecting it to not work, and was preparing to order a new cylinder, and new ignition switch. But it worked so well, I took a chance and put it back in. It's been working nicely for several years.