Ignition Key insertion problem

[dw]

Randomly the ignition key will not enter the slot - a protective metal shutter closes the key slot and will not budge until one has tried both keys and panicked about how is one going to get home and then the key can be put in the slot.

Is there a way of lubricating the key slot shutter or a way if easing open the shutter with a pin /nail etc. Looking at the key slot at the moment the shutter is not visible, so the key can enter with no problem.   

Thanks for any info, the thought of a new key barrel and set of keys with the attendant marrying is not a pleasant thought.

[collywobble]

Rather than lubricate it which could possibly make it stick even worse try spraying it with contact cleaner or Isopropyl Alcohol to clean any muck out of the switch. It worked for me on my other car.

[sgould]

Try a clean!

http://blog.saab9-5.com/?p=23

[Audax]

Try a clean!

http://blog.saab9-5.com/?p=23

That article is dangerous. I'd really suggest you *never* used WD40 on an ignition barrel, I've heard of a few sticking so someone "cleans" them with WD40 which then washes out all the lubricant and the lock is then jammed 2 weeks later which means a new ignition barrel apart from it then becomes a real mission to remove as you can't turn it. When the barrel got a bit sticky on my 9-5 I just put some graphite lock lubricant powder in and it fixed the problem.

[SaabGeeza]

For super cheap graphite, you can dust some powdered pencil 'lead' into the slot. Use a soft pencil and don't get any wood shavings in!

[dw]

Thanks for all your comments.

I had a chat with the garage about this problem, it is possible that the spring that closes the shutter over the key hole has either failed or got itself misplaced. Sadly the shutter mechanism is part of the barrel and is very difficult to get at.

It seems that custom barrels can be obtained ie calibrated for the existing keys but noe are currently in the UK or Sweden. So I assume it is a matter of waiting for GM to procure and supply the parts.