Ignition key stuck in RX300! This video shows how I fixed it. Maybe it will work for you. This continues to be recurring problem and it's highly annoying.
First, thank you so much. It saved my minimum of $500 and time. Your trick works so quickly and easy. It did not need to hit hammer hard. Initially, I was not comfortable to use your suggestion and worried it might damage my car key hole. Instead, I tried to turn the steering wheel left and right for 5 minutes and try to unlock the wheel. It did not work. After I used your suggestion, It works in less than 5 seconds. Big thanks.
THANK YOU! Years later and this advice still works. Thank you for sharing it. I've solved many annoying problems on my Lexus from videos like this and the Lexus Owners Club UK forums. Will never get a Lexus again.
GENIUS! I’m absolutely dumbfounded. This has happened to me a handful of times before, I sometimes put my wrong Lexus key into my other Lexus. And then it locks everything up. Usually I just turn the steering wheel as far as I can , put my foot on the brake, and then it will give. But this time it took a long time and didn’t give. So I turned the key perpendicular to the slot, tapped it couple times with my iPhone and immediately it unlocked. Unreal! THANK YOU
I saw you’re video and didn’t have a striking instrument with me. I fixed it, instead, by sliding the key in and out of the keyhole multiple times rapidly without applying force. Voila! It worked!
Thank you so much! Without this video a lot of people would lose a lot of money, just fixed my rx330 , almost spent $150 on towing, $200 for the part plus labor, took me a minute to fix it!! Thanks again!!
Great solution, Pete. I followed your example and was able to do it in one and a half minutes. I used a thin clock repair screwdriver and gently poked into the cylinder's key slot. I had my LS430 since 2009and this is the first time I had the problem. Thanks for the useful video.
I read through the comments, looking for something less invasive. My wife tried to start our 2009 RX 350 with our 2006 RX 330 keys. I believe that this caused the antitheft feature to lock the ignition and steering column. I locked and unlocked the car several times with the key fob buttons and it started like nothing ever happened. No screwdriver in the ignition hammering, no car rocking in neutral, and no key jiggling while cranking on the wheel.
THIS TRICK WORKED on a 2001 Lexus 300. My friends steering wheel was turning free, but ignition would not turn. The straight screwdriver goes into the ignition key hole. ( I seen some confusion in the comments ) Evidently the tumbler pins had gotten stuck. With nothing to lose, because she has decided to have the ignition replaced, I tried this successfully. I suspect this jars/bounces the tumbler pins into place, allowing the key to be turned. Thanks Pete for the info!
I have had my 2006 RX400H for 7 years. I went through this problem but found a general guideline. I understand the tumbler allignment suggestion. So... what I do is: 1) when you stop your car ensure the steering wheel is not turned... normal forward position... works most times 2) when you get into the car avoid moving the steering wheel before starting.. This makes sense from the comments as it may trigger the misalignment of the key to start. 3) worst case was today. My wife stuck for 1 hour. Push the trigger button next to Park and change to Neutral. Then push to move the car. As it moves jam it into Park giving it a hard little stop. this is my last resort but it will finally work. This started the car right away. Main things: keep steering wheel straight when you park and dont move your steering when you get into the vehicle. Majority of the time we are fine. maybe a few times a year. Hope that helps... BAD Lexus!!!!!
Hello Pete, My car is 2009 Lexus RX 350 which had the same problem yesterday. I watched your video as well as read all comments and suggestions below, then tried all of them but yours, those ways did not work. I haven't tried yours because I scared that this way would damage the lock. At last, I had no choice, so I tried your way. Do not believe it. Problem is resolved. Thank for your video. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
When turning the steering wheel and twisting car key back and forth didn’t work, even banging and cussing resulted in no luck, try the following steps: 1. Spray a little bit of WD40 into the key slot and wait for a few minutes 2. Insert a DIFFERENT key (new, spare, or not as beat up as the one being used) into the car key insert and try to start the car. After contacting AAA and having the car towed to my house, an experienced AAA tow truck operator who had towed thousands of Lexus over his many years on road services with this kind of steering/key lock up problems told me to do the above steps before he left. He said the problem is mainly due to the way how the Lexus car keys were cut that is more troublesome than other key cuts. To avoid running into the same problem, I started to use a “not so beat up” key as my primary use key. I also have the spare aluminum key, that came with the car when purchased, in my car at all time in case this happens again.
Somehow locked my boyfriends Lexus up once and paid 150 for a locksmith to unlock it. Second time it happened I googled it this was my first search option on Google tried it and BAM! Car is on! Thank you!!! Lifesaver!!!
Shen - your best bet is to take it to a toyota dealer and have them replace/repair the ignition. It cost me about $350. But, the trick I used involved placing a flat head screwdriver at the ignition entry, the tapping (see video for that) and then placing the key in and jiggling until the key engages and the car starts. Once I did that, the problem didn't re-occur for months. But, later, it just started happening all the time...so I took it to a toyota dealer to fix it.
Couple of wax with a hammer, it now works. Thank you for the video know if we can just get Lexus to jump on board send either a service bulletin or a recall on it so it doesn't happen in the future.
I have a 2004 Lexus rx330. This happened to the vehicle before 60,000 miles. The problem is not the idnition switch where the key goes in. It's not the angle of the wheels. It is a security system locking the ignition up. It will decide on its own when you can turn the key. It may be 10 minutes or several days. It will happen on hot days, cold days, and medium temp days. Lexus won't do anything because it would cost millions and millions. People have listed all kinds of ways to fix this problem from spraying different lubes into the key hole to hitting with a screw driver to rocking the car back and forth to pressing the accelerator pedal once brake twice unlocking the door 4 times getting out of the car and doing the hoke poke then the key will turn. At some point the key will eventually turn when the security takes it out of the secure mode and it recognizes the key. What you should do. 1- always carry a cell phone 2- do not have Lexus as your only vehicle. 3- don't go far from home If you do go far from home with it never return the key to the lock position. Turn the key only enough to stop the engine. Pop the hood and disconnect the battery if you are leaving it over night. Don't leave valuables in vehicle. If you are just going into a store make sure you turn off all accessories so you don't drain the battery. You can also have a battery disconnect switch installed so you don't have to pop the hood and wrench. Battery disconnects switches are used on drag cars to kill all electrical current in the car. Good news is that someone could easily take you Lexus. If this happens get your insurance claim and don't buy a Lexus again.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS VIDEO!! 💓💓 I thought I was going to be out money on a tow and repairs. Easy fix, tapped that screwdriver in the ignition lightly with a hammer and it immediately solved the problem. Guess I'll be carrying a screwdriver and hammer around as long as I own this Lexus. Thank you again, you have no idea the worry you lifted, I could just hug you! God bless.
Had the same issue, whacking it didn’t work for me so followed one of the comments and shot a bit of wd40 silicone into it then used a “lock picking” tool to scrape the inside pins. One pin must be stuck or gummed up. So afterwards turned just fine. Thanks for this thread and peoples helpful comments.
Omg you are a life saver my dear friend thank you so much my girl was in other city same car same problem I did this and it work thank you so much if I could I will bought you a beer.
It worked for me. This will make the tumblers of the lock come into neutral position. Also first clean the lock with an ear stick, put some alcohol on it, make the cotton wool smaller and clean the lock, then urse a little 4x4 oil.
Grabbed a rubber mallet and whacked the key 3 times. Viola! Key turned! Also tried to turn key while holding with pressure the steering wheel. Other attempts included locking car from outside to arm security system and, per Lexus owner site, recognize the key; pushing unlock on key fob 3x, wait 5 seconds, repeat 3X. The latter worked on a previous locked out situation.
I believe there is a solenoid inside the ignition that was installed for security purposes. The solenoid releases when the key is inserted to allow you to turn the key. This is different than the tumblers that the key initiates. If you can get into the ignition column you might be able to disable or remove the solenoid altogether eliminating the problem. You'll just lose that "extra" security feature that Lexus installed.
@@PeteButlerJr Pain in the neck. I think if you remove the positive battery cable you should be able to turn the key in the ignition. Then you can put the battery cable back on. Of course if you are out somewhere in a store or something you will need a 10mm wrench handy as that is the size for the battery cable nut
@@PeteButlerJr Had the same thing happen on my bimmers joystick gear shifter. Could not go into reverse. Took the gear shifter apart and removed solenoid. No more problems after that
THANK YOU!!!!!!! YOU SAVED ME SO MUCH $$$ & FRUSTRATION -- I have the same make and model Lexus as in your video....same problem... I've got a small blister on my thumb from trying the " turn the steering wheel really hard to one side while jiggling the key in an attempt to turn it" method-- aarrrggghh! WHAT WORKED WAS: filling the ignition keyhole with a couple shots of graphite powder (didn't work but probably helped) then -- just took a medium sized hammer and smacked the ignition right in its little round keyhole face-- a good Smack but not to hard---VOILA!! -- PUT THE KEY IN AND IT TURNED OVER!! YEAH!!!!! I thanked JESUS - & YOU (& one other guy from youtube :-) )....all this while the mosquitos were biting and my makeup was melting--- but I don't care -- cause my pretty Lexi just cranked right up!! THANK YOU MR PETE BUTLER!!! ;-)))))))...PS- didn't used the flat head screwdriver- my steering wheel was cranked so far to left-- it physically blocked me from lining up the hammer on screwdriver whack.
The tap trick didn't work for me, but I suspect that my issue had to do with the ignition suddenly being very cold (23deg). I took a hairdryer out to the car and ran it on high aimed at the ignition switch for about 4 minutes. Worked like a charm after that.
My Rx400h ignition also locks the igintion mainly in cold weather. Best solution is to lock and unlock the doors using driver door keyhole, this will unlock the antitheft on ignition. if that doesn't work then insert the key in the ignition and gently tap it in with your palm.
Snow under the vehicle can cause this as well, shifting the wheel. I got luck and waited for the snow to melt some and maybe you guys may want to wait until it all has melted if you have time. I also tired a little WD40 into the key area to help and I got lucky and it turned !!!
Thank you Pete Butler as well for making this Video, I wish lexus would help us but I think only when this is a major number of people, then ppl will help.
This has happened for a year now, but today I accidentally put my wife's car key into my car. Key wont turn. Hit it with hammer and Phillips screwdriver and didn't turn . Finally put some wd40 into the key hole and it worked.. thank God
Worked for me. Tried the screwdriver a couple times and it didn't work. I put the spare key in and it tapped the back of it with a mallet and it worked.
This did work on my 06 Lexus Rx400h today. Not sure if this is a permanent solution, does it happen too often? Should there be any fix for this? Can you guys let me know. Thanks in advance!
i took my 2007 RX 350 with 54000 miles on it into the dealer. $750.00 to replace ignition. I tried everything to try and fix it, lube, hitting, etc. this should be a LEXUS recall, never had a car do this before.
I'm having the same problem also the key wouldn't accept the key. And many times the key wouldn't turn. Whats this problem. I never had this type o problem with any other car.2008 Lexus rx400h
i just had this happen to my dad's lexus gx470. i sprayed some wd40 in the ignition and took the valet key to push it in and unlock the ignition. once i did that, i took that key out and used the regular key to start the vehicle.
Actually, Lexus did help us fix this problem just this morning (RX350, 2009). If the steering wheel gets bumped/turned when the car is in the park mode, this lockup situation might happen. My steering wheel more than likely did get bumped yesterday, as I had my car interior cleaned in my own garage, by someone else who could have, in fact, moved the steering wheel. Anyway, instead of pushing something into your ignition, pop open the little flap left of your gear shifter. Then push the button in there with a screw driver or your car keys. This will unlock your gear shifter and let you switch to neutral. Once you do that, leave the key in (ignition, not this socket) and push the car back and forth, while moving your steering wheel. You're then ready to go.
The car is funny like the my 94 Camry ignition you have to push in as you turn it from acc to off and at an angle it's same just have the angle on the Rx. If the cylinder was in front not on the side this would less likely happen because it's plum.
The dealer told me that it was a granular as the year ,make, model, AND COLOR that this happens to. I happened to have an extended warranty so it didn't cost me the $650 + $150 rekey to match my keys. My RX350 is beige, sandstone, champagne..... whatever... tan.... etc. I'm curious what color your RX is
I feel the Obligations to tell everyone how to fix this steering wheel lock issue, Today I ran into this problem, I check the Internet but no fixing method really works, I noticed that the steering wheel is trembling not firmly move or turn while I was trying to rotate it after it was up to my normal driving place, so I lower it back to the low position and then it could be move back forward firmly, at that moment the key rotated. I think when the steering wheel is at the initial point, the low position, it has more link to the tire, may this be the reason for my success,
Video was pitch Black and there was no explanation of what he was tapping. Can someone explain what he did with the screwdriver so I can get my 2008rx350 started?
I've been having the same issue in my 2009 since 2018, not even the lexus dealer know the solution. I'm experiencing it right now that's why I'm on here again 😢
This is infuriating! This happens every 6 months or so...for no reason. I ALWAYS park with the front wheels pointing straight forward and the steering wheel level...and it still happens. Just keep wiggling the steering wheel back and forth while trying to turn the key.
I have a 2008 RX400h. Almost 4000 miles later it happened to me. I thought maybe it was because I left the moon roof open, but then I saw this video. I got out, locked and unlocked the car, then got back in and tried again with now success; however, after "punching" the key in a couple of times it worked. Hopefully this won't be a recurring problem.
Left the sun roof open on lexus rx300 now its acting like this... It did it before but I don't know what I'm doing to make it do that in the first place since your saying the sunroof is not the reason
I did watch the video... doesn't show much or explain what you did. Just see a srew driver or flat head.. don't know where you place on the key ignition area. Lexus is not helping me try and solve this problem. Thanks in advance
They say the definition of crazy is doing the same thing, over and over, and expecting a different outcome. I just watched Pete turn the key for about two minutes straight. Next he takes a screwdriver and beats the heck out of the ignition lock for another minute. Further on in these comments people are saying a replacement ignition lock at the dealer is from $350 to $750. I looked up some other situations where the recommended cure was a little less violent. "Pull the steering wheel back and turn to the right.. or left releasing tension on the lock and turn the key." And finally, go outside, close the door and lock and unlock the door with the key. The locking and unlocking worked for me. Evidently that resets the electronic circuit.
+Don MacAdam Based on my experience, it will get worse and worse for you Don. I was right where you were at the start. No biggie! But, the simple fix will get more complex, and the next thing you know you'll be ready to take a hammer to it. Enjoy yourself when you get to that point. Then, go get the ignition lock replaced.
I just took the head of a 3/4 inch ratchet and a hammer. Turned the steering wheel. Hit the ratchet socket part into the ignition switch twice hard with a hammer, turned the key switch and it turned to start the car. WOW!!
It's time for Lexus to do a recall on the ignition.. they need to fix this problem and be responsible for we need to start a protest for recalling this is a serious issue I am away from home and I could not get this car to crank
@theory816 maybe I give it a try. Kinda hesitate because my sis spray'd WD40 in it and it may just gum up with that stuff. I was thinking to spray some electrical contact cleaner in it. Then try something like that
Lmao I just got my 2001 lexus rx300 it only had one owner. I'm the second n it's done this to me twice now. I'm here because this is the second time. What am I doing that makes it go into anti theft mode... Im looking for the answer so I don't keep doing it. This bites when I got important shit to do. I just walk back in the house and sit there until my lexus likes me again
You are a genius!! After about an hour of trying to start my car, as soon at i tapped the key slot, IT WORKED!! Thank you so much!!
First, thank you so much. It saved my minimum of $500 and time. Your trick works so quickly and easy. It did not need to hit hammer hard. Initially, I was not comfortable to use your suggestion and worried it might damage my car key hole. Instead, I tried to turn the steering wheel left and right for 5 minutes and try to unlock the wheel. It did not work. After I used your suggestion, It works in less than 5 seconds. Big thanks.
THANK YOU! Years later and this advice still works. Thank you for sharing it. I've solved many annoying problems on my Lexus from videos like this and the Lexus Owners Club UK forums. Will never get a Lexus again.
GENIUS! I’m absolutely dumbfounded. This has happened to me a handful of times before, I sometimes put my wrong Lexus key into my other Lexus. And then it locks everything up. Usually I just turn the steering wheel as far as I can , put my foot on the brake, and then it will give. But this time it took a long time and didn’t give. So I turned the key perpendicular to the slot, tapped it couple times with my iPhone and immediately it unlocked. Unreal! THANK YOU
Your usual hack saved me. Legs on brake and turning the wheels as far as possible and boom the ignition was unlocked 🙏
I saw you’re video and didn’t have a striking instrument with me. I fixed it, instead, by sliding the key in and out of the keyhole multiple times rapidly without applying force. Voila! It worked!
Thank you so much! Without this video a lot of people would lose a lot of money, just fixed my rx330 , almost spent $150 on towing, $200 for the part plus labor, took me a minute to fix it!! Thanks again!!
Nikolay Kovalov So glad to hear this was helpful to you!
Great solution, Pete. I followed your example and was able to do it in one and a half minutes. I used a thin clock repair screwdriver and gently poked into the cylinder's key slot. I had my LS430 since 2009and this is the first time I had the problem. Thanks for the useful video.
Turn wheel right and turn key. Worked first time. Thank you!!!
I read through the comments, looking for something less invasive. My wife tried to start our 2009 RX 350 with our 2006 RX 330 keys. I believe that this caused the antitheft feature to lock the ignition and steering column. I locked and unlocked the car several times with the key fob buttons and it started like nothing ever happened. No screwdriver in the ignition hammering, no car rocking in neutral, and no key jiggling while cranking on the wheel.
So glad you posted this! Just had this issue the 1st time also, in 15deg temp. Went right to UA-cam and 5mins later, im on the road, thank you!!
THIS TRICK WORKED on a 2001 Lexus 300. My friends steering wheel was turning free, but ignition would not turn. The straight screwdriver goes into the ignition key hole. ( I seen some confusion in the comments ) Evidently the tumbler pins had gotten stuck. With nothing to lose, because she has decided to have the ignition replaced, I tried this successfully. I suspect this jars/bounces the tumbler pins into place, allowing the key to be turned. Thanks Pete for the info!
It's unbelievable, but the tap just worked for me after I must have tried different things. A big thanks
Thank God i chose to watch this video. My husband tried it and it worked! Thank you!!
Thank You for that TAP, 1999 Lexus RX300 handed down to my son. WOW, saved me $.
I have had my 2006 RX400H for 7 years. I went through this problem but found a general guideline. I understand the tumbler allignment suggestion. So... what I do is:
1) when you stop your car ensure the steering wheel is not turned... normal forward position... works most times
2) when you get into the car avoid moving the steering wheel before starting.. This makes sense from the comments as it may trigger the misalignment of the key to start.
3) worst case was today. My wife stuck for 1 hour. Push the trigger button next to Park and change to Neutral. Then push to move the car. As it moves jam it into Park giving it a hard little stop. this is my last resort but it will finally work.
This started the car right away.
Main things: keep steering wheel straight when you park and dont move your steering when you get into the vehicle. Majority of the time we are fine. maybe a few times a year.
Hope that helps... BAD Lexus!!!!!
Thank you sir for this video you just saved me $335 today. I appreciate 🙏🙏
Pete Butler, worked perfectly. Thank you.
that happened to me once, the trick was jiggling the wheel same time as turning the key.
🙏 I fucking love you I tried it and it turned instantly
Thanks
Worked for me, thank you 😁😁😁
3 years later and let me add to the "thank yous"
Mehn….this just saved me now.
Thanks So much
Problem solved!!! I was about to call a locksmith... They charge 200 up front for a late night job! Thanks for sharing!!!
Hello Pete,
My car is 2009 Lexus RX 350 which had the same problem yesterday. I watched your video as well as read all comments and suggestions below, then tried all of them but yours, those ways did not work. I haven't tried yours because I scared that this way would damage the lock.
At last, I had no choice, so I tried your way. Do not believe it. Problem is resolved.
Thank for your video. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
It will go months, and the same thing will happen again. I've been experiencing this for 5 years 😢
When turning the steering wheel and twisting car key back and forth didn’t work, even banging and cussing resulted in no luck, try the following steps:
1. Spray a little bit of WD40 into the key slot and wait for a few minutes
2. Insert a DIFFERENT key (new, spare, or not as beat up as the one being used) into the car key insert and try to start the car.
After contacting AAA and having the car towed to my house, an experienced AAA tow truck operator who had towed thousands of Lexus over his many years on road services with this kind of steering/key lock up problems told me to do the above steps before he left. He said the problem is mainly due to the way how the Lexus car keys were cut that is more troublesome than other key cuts.
To avoid running into the same problem, I started to use a “not so beat up” key as my primary use key. I also have the spare aluminum key, that came with the car when purchased, in my car at all time in case this happens again.
Somehow locked my boyfriends Lexus up once and paid 150 for a locksmith to unlock it. Second time it happened I googled it this was my first search option on Google tried it and BAM! Car is on! Thank you!!! Lifesaver!!!
So glad this was helpful to you!
This worked for me ! After hours in the cold. Big thanks
Charmaine Ketcheson - So glad it was helpful!
Thanks so much. This saved my butt this morning
Shen - your best bet is to take it to a toyota dealer and have them replace/repair the ignition. It cost me about $350. But, the trick I used involved placing a flat head screwdriver at the ignition entry, the tapping (see video for that) and then placing the key in and jiggling until the key engages and the car starts. Once I did that, the problem didn't re-occur for months. But, later, it just started happening all the time...so I took it to a toyota dealer to fix it.
Couple of wax with a hammer, it now works.
Thank you for the video know if we can just get Lexus to jump on board send either a service bulletin or a recall on it so it doesn't happen in the future.
I have a 2004 Lexus rx330. This happened to the vehicle before 60,000 miles. The problem is not the idnition switch where the key goes in. It's not the angle of the wheels. It is a security system locking the ignition up. It will decide on its own when you can turn the key. It may be 10 minutes or several days. It will happen on hot days, cold days, and medium temp days. Lexus won't do anything because it would cost millions and millions. People have listed all kinds of ways to fix this problem from spraying different lubes into the key hole to hitting with a screw driver to rocking the car back and forth to pressing the accelerator pedal once brake twice unlocking the door 4 times getting out of the car and doing the hoke poke then the key will turn. At some point the key will eventually turn when the security takes it out of the secure mode and it recognizes the key. What you should do.
1- always carry a cell phone
2- do not have Lexus as your only vehicle.
3- don't go far from home
If you do go far from home with it never return the key to the lock position. Turn the key only enough to stop the engine. Pop the hood and disconnect the battery if you are leaving it over night. Don't leave valuables in vehicle. If you are just going into a store make sure you turn off all accessories so you don't drain the battery. You can also have a battery disconnect switch installed so you don't have to pop the hood and wrench. Battery disconnects switches are used on drag cars to kill all electrical current in the car.
Good news is that someone could easily take you Lexus. If this happens get your insurance claim and don't buy a Lexus again.
I also believe it has something to do with the security switch, which is an embarrassing pain in the butt.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS VIDEO!! 💓💓 I thought I was going to be out money on a tow and repairs. Easy fix, tapped that screwdriver in the ignition lightly with a hammer and it immediately solved the problem. Guess I'll be carrying a screwdriver and hammer around as long as I own this Lexus. Thank you again, you have no idea the worry you lifted, I could just hug you! God bless.
I’m so glad you were successful. I know that feeling of anxiety all too well. Here’s wishing you a Merry Christmas!
Thanks, I just did it on my Lexus RX 400h and it works, but be careful
i had this issue today, watched your video and fixed it just like u did. HUGE thanks!
Well that tap trick worked for me too! Thank you!
Happened in my is300 after I stuck the wrong key from another car in the ignition. This trick worked great! Thanks
Had the same issue, whacking it didn’t work for me so followed one of the comments and shot a bit of wd40 silicone into it then used a “lock picking” tool to scrape the inside pins. One pin must be stuck or gummed up. So afterwards turned just fine. Thanks for this thread and peoples helpful comments.
Thanks for the wd-40 tip! After spraying, inserted the key a few times and it was finally able to turn.
Thanks, this worked for my 2004 Lexus GX470.
Mines also
its an awesome idea i just have my problm solved with the help of this video thanx bro
Omg you are a life saver my dear friend thank you so much my girl was in other city same car same problem I did this and it work thank you so much if I could I will bought you a beer.
It worked for me. This will make the tumblers of the lock come into neutral position. Also first clean the lock with an ear stick, put some alcohol on it, make the cotton wool smaller and clean the lock, then urse a little 4x4 oil.
Grabbed a rubber mallet and whacked the key 3 times. Viola! Key turned! Also tried to turn key while holding with pressure the steering wheel. Other attempts included locking car from outside to arm security system and, per Lexus owner site, recognize the key; pushing unlock on key fob 3x, wait 5 seconds, repeat 3X. The latter worked on a previous locked out situation.
I also had this issue today. Thanks. Btw I am driving RHD rx350
It really works, thanks for the tip.
I believe there is a solenoid inside the ignition that was installed for security purposes. The solenoid releases when the key is inserted to allow you to turn the key. This is different than the tumblers that the key initiates. If you can get into the ignition column you might be able to disable or remove the solenoid altogether eliminating the problem. You'll just lose that "extra" security feature that Lexus installed.
Y2J19831 Interesting how those extra features results in extra problems!
@@PeteButlerJr Pain in the neck. I think if you remove the positive battery cable you should be able to turn the key in the ignition. Then you can put the battery cable back on. Of course if you are out somewhere in a store or something you will need a 10mm wrench handy as that is the size for the battery cable nut
@@PeteButlerJr Had the same thing happen on my bimmers joystick gear shifter. Could not go into reverse. Took the gear shifter apart and removed solenoid. No more problems after that
This video did the trick on my wife's lexus.
Shen - just watch the video. That's the fix. Pretty crazy!
I didn't have to go through all this stuff. All I did was close the door, arm the alarm, then disarm it and it worked.
Wow it did work
I was skeptical
THANK YOU!!!!!!! YOU SAVED ME SO MUCH $$$ & FRUSTRATION -- I have the same make and model Lexus as in your video....same problem... I've got a small blister on my thumb from trying the " turn the steering wheel really hard to one side while jiggling the key in an attempt to turn it" method-- aarrrggghh! WHAT WORKED WAS: filling the ignition keyhole with a couple shots of graphite powder (didn't work but probably helped) then -- just took a medium sized hammer and smacked the ignition right in its little round keyhole face-- a good Smack but not to hard---VOILA!! -- PUT THE KEY IN AND IT TURNED OVER!! YEAH!!!!! I thanked JESUS - & YOU (& one other guy from youtube :-) )....all this while the mosquitos were biting and my makeup was melting--- but I don't care -- cause my pretty Lexi just cranked right up!! THANK YOU MR PETE BUTLER!!! ;-)))))))...PS- didn't used the flat head screwdriver- my steering wheel was cranked so far to left-- it physically blocked me from lining up the hammer on screwdriver whack.
this is currentlt happening to my wife while im away so im sending her this video and crossing my fingers. thanks
Hope it worked for your wife.
My has done this more times than I can count and 1 or 2 of the times were very time sensitive. Big issue LEXUS!!!!
this man just saved my life
I’m glad this was helpful to you. Happy New Year!
Thanks!!! It worked !!!
Thought it was fake just saved me a aaa and locksmith call thanks a lot
Crazy, right???
The tap trick didn't work for me, but I suspect that my issue had to do with the ignition suddenly being very cold (23deg). I took a hairdryer out to the car and ran it on high aimed at the ignition switch for about 4 minutes. Worked like a charm after that.
Hot Dang.......😅😂😂😢😭😅😥😥😥 It worked....... It really wrk..... Thank god 4 u... Ur ok in my book...... ✊✊
Thanks worked for me too!!
My Rx400h ignition also locks the igintion mainly in cold weather. Best solution is to lock and unlock the doors using driver door keyhole, this will unlock the antitheft on ignition. if that doesn't work then insert the key in the ignition and gently tap it in with your palm.
Thank youuuu you saved me
Snow under the vehicle can cause this as well, shifting the wheel. I got luck and waited for the snow to melt some and maybe you guys may want to wait until it all has melted if you have time. I also tired a little WD40 into the key area to help and I got lucky and it turned !!!
Thank you Pete Butler as well for making this Video, I wish lexus would help us but I think only when this is a major number of people, then ppl will help.
This has happened for a year now, but today I accidentally put my wife's car key into my car. Key wont turn. Hit it with hammer and Phillips screwdriver and didn't turn . Finally put some wd40 into the key hole and it worked.. thank God
How did you temporarily fix the problem. I have the same problem with my Lexus RX
Worked for me. Tried the screwdriver a couple times and it didn't work. I put the spare key in and it tapped the back of it with a mallet and it worked.
Where did you place the screwdriver when you were tapping on it?
What exactly did you do when it looked as if you hit something with a screwdriver
This did work on my 06 Lexus Rx400h today.
Not sure if this is a permanent solution, does it happen too often? Should there be any fix for this? Can you guys let me know.
Thanks in advance!
i took my 2007 RX 350 with 54000 miles on it into the dealer. $750.00 to replace ignition. I tried everything to try and fix it, lube, hitting, etc. this should be a LEXUS recall, never had a car do this before.
The TAP works! I saved my mommas car. Best with a flathead screwdriver. Lifesaver man
woow awsome,... I kind of did the same thing but I put my valet key in and lightly tapped the end with a piece of lumber I happen to have in the car.
The same problem happened to my mom's 08 rx350, and I fixed it by knocking on the ignition with my knuckles.
does this work the same for smart key ignitions?
Yes it happen to rx350 2007 Lexus too key won’t turn I hate it but thanks for the video
I'm having the same problem also the key wouldn't accept the key. And many times the key wouldn't turn. Whats this problem. I never had this type o problem with any other car.2008 Lexus rx400h
i just had this happen to my dad's lexus gx470. i sprayed some wd40 in the ignition and took the valet key to push it in and unlock the ignition. once i did that, i took that key out and used the regular key to start the vehicle.
Actually, Lexus did help us fix this problem just this morning (RX350, 2009). If the steering wheel gets bumped/turned when the car is in the park mode, this lockup situation might happen. My steering wheel more than likely did get bumped yesterday, as I had my car interior cleaned in my own garage, by someone else who could have, in fact, moved the steering wheel.
Anyway, instead of pushing something into your ignition, pop open the little flap left of your gear shifter. Then push the button in there with a screw driver or your car keys. This will unlock your gear shifter and let you switch to neutral. Once you do that, leave the key in (ignition, not this socket) and push the car back and forth, while moving your steering wheel.
You're then ready to go.
Thanks, did what you said and it worked. I had a feeling it had something to do with the wheels hitting the curb.
Tuan H did your RX have the same problem?
Raiya 111 yes. it seems to be a common problem with this gen rx. just use the method the poster above me recommended
do you have to move it back in forward fast??
@@tuanh5319 move the car back and forth while on neutral?
Just saved me 💪🏾💕
Great video you saved my ass
My 07 RX350 does the same thing all the time! So frustrating.
Thank you lol
Almost 68000 views! Lexus, get it fixed!
You saved my $300
I want make my rx a rifle target when it hapoend. once a year or maybe every 18 months
The car is funny like the my 94 Camry ignition you have to push in as you turn it from acc to off and at an angle it's same just have the angle on the Rx. If the cylinder was in front not on the side this would less likely happen because it's plum.
The dealer told me that it was a granular as the year ,make, model, AND COLOR that this happens to. I happened to have an extended warranty so it didn't cost me the $650 + $150 rekey to match my keys. My RX350 is beige, sandstone, champagne..... whatever... tan.... etc. I'm curious what color your RX is
RX300, beige , tan, goldish.
I feel the Obligations to tell everyone how to fix this steering wheel lock issue, Today I ran into this problem, I check the Internet but no fixing method really works, I noticed that the steering wheel is trembling not firmly move or turn while I was trying to rotate it after it was up to my normal driving place, so I lower it back to the low position and then it could be move back forward firmly, at that moment the key rotated. I think when the steering wheel is at the initial point, the low position, it has more link to the tire, may this be the reason for my success,
This is my second time having this problem this time I cannot get it to work I watch video it would not work for me
Huge help at 0230 this am!😀😀😀😀😀
Hi. Did you eventually replace the ignition or was this a 1 time deal so far?
Yes, I eventually replaced the ignition at a Toyota dealership.
When you replaced the ignition switch did that permanently fix it?
Video was pitch Black and there was no explanation of what he was tapping. Can someone explain what he did with the screwdriver so I can get my 2008rx350 started?
What did you do?
What did he do ?
Try to a lubricator first. Its should work.
this guy saved my life thx
Jolyn Nguyen I’m so happy to hear this was helpful to you!
I have same problem but my is keyless 😢what just i do any one out there help
Yes mine too same model
I've been having the same issue in my 2009 since 2018, not even the lexus dealer know the solution. I'm experiencing it right now that's why I'm on here again 😢
Hope you got it sorted out, @lindacobb6473
Unfortunately not, I'm still experiencing the same problem 😢
This is infuriating! This happens every 6 months or so...for no reason. I ALWAYS park with the front wheels pointing straight forward and the steering wheel level...and it still happens.
Just keep wiggling the steering wheel back and forth while trying to turn the key.
I have a 2008 RX400h. Almost 4000 miles later it happened to me. I thought maybe it was because I left the moon roof open, but then I saw this video. I got out, locked and unlocked the car, then got back in and tried again with now success; however, after "punching" the key in a couple of times it worked. Hopefully this won't be a recurring problem.
Left the sun roof open on lexus rx300 now its acting like this... It did it before but I don't know what I'm doing to make it do that in the first place since your saying the sunroof is not the reason
I did watch the video... doesn't show much or explain what you did. Just see a srew driver or flat head.. don't know where you place on the key ignition area. Lexus is not helping me try and solve this problem. Thanks in advance
EXACTLY SHEN, a trillion dollars of technology and the world is even more retarded bcuz of it😐
They say the definition of crazy is doing the same thing, over and over, and expecting a different outcome.
I just watched Pete turn the key for about two minutes straight. Next he takes a screwdriver and beats the heck out of the ignition lock for another minute.
Further on in these comments people are saying a replacement ignition lock at the dealer is from $350 to $750.
I looked up some other situations where the recommended cure was a little less violent. "Pull the steering wheel back and turn to the right.. or left releasing tension on the lock and turn the key."
And finally, go outside, close the door and lock and unlock the door with the key.
The locking and unlocking worked for me. Evidently that resets the electronic circuit.
+Don MacAdam Based on my experience, it will get worse and worse for you Don. I was right where you were at the start. No biggie! But, the simple fix will get more complex, and the next thing you know you'll be ready to take a hammer to it. Enjoy yourself when you get to that point. Then, go get the ignition lock replaced.
I just took the head of a 3/4 inch ratchet and a hammer. Turned the steering wheel. Hit the ratchet socket part into the ignition switch twice hard with a hammer, turned the key switch and it turned to start the car. WOW!!
It's time for Lexus to do a recall on the ignition.. they need to fix this problem and be responsible for we need to start a protest for recalling this is a serious issue I am away from home and I could not get this car to crank
I have a 99 rx300 and it happens too. Always when I need to go to work or have a sick kid on my hands
Scott Ouimet Happened to me again today. :-(
@theory816 maybe I give it a try. Kinda hesitate because my sis spray'd WD40 in it and it may just gum up with that stuff. I was thinking to spray some electrical contact cleaner in it. Then try something like that
How about you explain WHAT YOU DID!!
I think mine is completely dead. It’s happen everyday for 4 days now. 06 Lexus Rx330 come on now lexus!!!!
quite a drop of oil
I used WD-40 to free my 2009 RX350 twice. Definitely a bad design.
This happens to my 2007 GX 470 atleast 3 or 4 times in a year.
Lmao I just got my 2001 lexus rx300 it only had one owner. I'm the second n it's done this to me twice now. I'm here because this is the second time. What am I doing that makes it go into anti theft mode... Im looking for the answer so I don't keep doing it. This bites when I got important shit to do. I just walk back in the house and sit there until my lexus likes me again
On my third time on my 470 but this one worked immediately. Unlike turning and turning and jiggling the key for almost a hour