[luqo33]

Hello,

I cannot turn the key in the ignition switch beyond the "Lock" position in my Saab 9-3 SE Coupe, I-gen, 2001, manual transmission, European version.
I found instructions on the forums on how to remove the ignition switch cylinder for cleaning, but for that you have to have the key in the "Off" position.
I also noticed that now as the ignition switch is stuck, I don't hear/feel a typical "click" sound - the key goes into the whole "too easy".
The situation is even worse because I even cannot tow the car as it's in the reverse gear.

What solutions could I try? Is it maybe possible to replace the whole ignition switch?
Any advice would be very much appreciated,

Thanks you!

 

[AUSSIE900]

With some load on the gear shift lever , pulling back to you , try jiggling the key ,

 

[Minirex4777]

I've seen the cylinders get filthy and keys get tough to get in and out but have yet to see one so gummed it won't come out .you can take wd40 or creep some penetrant oil and just spray down the key into the cylinder to get some movement .because they are in a low position all kinds of crap gets in em .when you get the key out remove the cylinder. I soaked mine in gas and then oil..little trick to pull out the first time you need a metal rod skinny one.and you have to poke the release just right .patience and persistence will get you through this problem .

 

[Mimmi]

Hi and welcome.
Try another key.
If key is wrong, lock will not release and it will not turn.

 

[Minirex4777]

I think he's saying the keys already in the ignition and it's already turned it won't turn back and come out if I'm understanding him correctly

 

[Mimmi]

Where you find that?

 

[multisaabguy]

Sounds like your key is worn out and won’t engage the tabs correctly. Try lifting the key slightly while turning at the same time

 

[Mimmi]

Where you find that?

 

[EdT]

Did the key work before?

Does the key unlock the door/hatch?

 

[grmeyers]

check to see if your battery is run down

 

[Big Mac]

Hello,

I cannot turn the key in the ignition switch beyond the "Lock" position in my Saab 9-3 SE Coupe, I-gen, 2001, manual transmission, European version.
I found instructions on the forums on how to remove the ignition switch cylinder for cleaning, but for that you have to have the key in the "Off" position.
I also noticed that now as the ignition switch is stuck, I don't hear/feel a typical "click" sound - the key goes into the whole "too easy".
The situation is even worse because I even cannot tow the car as it's in the reverse gear.

What solutions could I try? Is it maybe possible to replace the whole ignition switch?
Any advice would be very much appreciated,

Thanks you!

Try disconnecting the battery for about a minute. I do this on my 2008 9-3 Convertible and it works. It reboots the computer.

 

[Big Mac]

Try disconnecting the battery for about a minute. I do this on my 2008 9-3 Convertible and it works. It reboots the computer.

 

[EdT]

Try disconnecting the battery for about a minute. I do this on my 2008 9-3 Convertible and it works. It reboots the computer.

This is a completely different car with a completely mechanical key system.

 

[SunSaab]

When I had a sticking ignition switch, it was not quite stuck, I sprayed some WD-40 into the switch and was eventually able to cycle through the key positions without issue. It helped a lot and I have not had to replace the switch. Maybe I just got lucky.

 

[BobSaabit]

Clarify this for us...

• will the key come in and out of the lock cylinder?
• do you have another key to try?
• if it comes out, does the key cylinder pop up when you take the key out?