Ignition barrel

[Ian Burgess]

I have a 2008 58 plate Avensis 2L diesel hatchback.
The ignition barrel has become very stiff. The ignition key goes in with a bit of gentle persuasion and the car then starts ok, but I’m not sure how long it will be before the barrel seizes up and won’t accept the key.
My local street corner garage say they can’t fix it as it would need programming, and perhaps contact Toyota main line dealer (or a specialist). I haven’t done this yet, and thought I’d raise at this forum. 

I’m not a mechanic, or diy person, so wouldn’t look to fix or replace it myself, but does anyone have any guidance or advice on the best and cheapest way to get this repaired or replaced, if there is someone who specialises in this sort of problem.

Thank you. Ian

[Derek.w]

Try a little oil on the key itself and the outer rotating ring of the barrel it may help.

[Crustyoldavensis]

My Avensis did that and eventually got to not working without a great deal of faf.

You can try wd40 or some such in the keyhole but I would recommend getting it out and blasting it with car cleaner then a bit of three in one.

The key has to be in and able to turn to remove it. It is very easy to do and will need doing soon.

 

 

[Cyker]

Had that on my Mk1 Yaris, sprayed a little (And I stress a little!) WD40 into it with the straw attachment and worked it in with the key, and it was smooth as... a smooth thing.

[Crustyoldavensis]

If you are near kings lynn I am happy to pop it out and clean it for you. I did mine in 2017 and it hasn't been a problem since.

[2009joe]

when comes to a key there is a transponder chip in the key and will have to cut open making sure not to break the  transponder chip. you im sure can get another cylinder and key for it but then you will need 2 keys as the original key to open door and boot then another one to start it unless you can get the complete keys set from a breaker and change over the transponder chip and all should be good .your local street corner garage dont seen like a person i wouldnt like to bring anything to as tbh should be a easy job but they are just trying to fob you off