Expert: Roland Finston - 10/8/2011

Question
Hello,

I have a 2002 dodge stratus that I cannot get to start.  The key won't turn in the ignition.  I have tried the "steering wheel jiggle" several dozen times but it still won't turn.  I have oiled the lock, cleaned out the lock with air, tried all my keys, and still nothing.  The steering wheel is upside down, and it doesn't budge much. It has been sitting for weeks now cause I can't figure out a solution.  The car needs some work on other components (transmission, new tires, engine hesitates) and it already has 125000 miles on it so I don't want to put a lot of money into fixing it at this point.  In fact, I just want to get it to start it so I can sell it.  I have read that there is a cable of some sort connecting the transmission, brake and key but I am not sure how to check to see if that is the issue.

Even if I got a new ignition cylinder, I wouldn't be able to remove the old one because I can't turn the key to accessory to slid out the lock core.  Any help or ideas you can give me would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you for your time and expertise.

Answer
Hi Mike,
There is an interlock as you describe which may be the problem. I can copy the pages about it from an '04 manual that I have on CD and email those to you directly, rather than via Allexperts.
So I need to know your email address which I don't ever see here at Allexperts. You have to tell me it directly in a question you ask me. To do that you will need to ask a NEW question and in the question space tell me that email address. Then check the box to 'keep question private' or the address will be erased and I won't get it. Follow these instructions exactly and it will work.
Roland
PS Sorry for the delay but I just found your question in the 'pool' to which it had been referred by Kevin.