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MG MGB Technical - Ignition Switch Problem

The ignition key will not go right into lock. Inserting the key as far as it will go and then turning will start the car but the key can then be removed with the engine still running. The steering lock also seems to have stopped working.

Everything worked perfectly before I used the car yesterday.

Any ideas how this can be cured please?
Rob Williams

The lock is either worn out or needs to be taken apart and cleaned.
Kimberly

Let your fingers do the walking.find a locksmith that will rebuild your lock the first two will probobly say it can't be done but keep trying ,when you find the right one the switch will feel better then new. RIC
Ric Lloyd

I have the same problem with my spare (which is a copy of a worn copy), and what's more it won't turn back all the way to remove the key in the normal position. Discovered this the morning we were departing on a 3-day event when I hadn't got the proper ignition key in my pocket! Didn't dare force it and risk jamming it altogether, so lived with the prospect of someone being able to drive off in it with a screwdriver. Managed to get things back to normal with a bit of force when we got back home. Enquired about getting a 'proper' key cut to the original master pattern, but was told it is likely to be just as bad if not worse as worn locks don't like new keys. I don't know if Willenhall has any small locksmiths left, I very much doubt you would get any joy from the big boys, or the mobile boys, who are nothing more than fitters only capable of replacing them ... if they will tackle an MGB. You may have to resort to buying a new lock and keys and fitting it yourself (much cheaper).
Paul Hunt 2

Paul: I can't speak for the UK but in the US a rebuild is cheaper an original RIC
Ric Lloyd

As an emergency tip - with my '73 GT I was once on a trip over 200 miles from home when the key got stuck in the lock and would not disengage. A locksmith came out, and got the key out (sharp rap with a hammer, it seems - like a safecracker).

In order to operate the car, I removed the steering column shroud, and detached the ignition switch from the lock and used a screwdriver with a thick blade to twist the pawl of the switch to start and operate the car. At this point, I followed the smith to his shop.

As the locksmith diagnosed the lock set as hopelessly worn, I ended up using this technique for the balance of the trip and replaced the lock with a used set upon my return. For security on the trip, luckily it was the GT (which has locking doors and a tin top) and I have a steel steering wheel-to-brake-pedal anti-theft bar.

PS - I'm having to remember over several years, but I believe the locksmith could have gotten the lock to function - but that it was so worn there was a danger that the ignition lock might inadvertantly drop into place while driving, locking the steering column at at inopportune time. I have no idea about how true that is/was, but I had no intention of finding out the hard way and so used the naked column and screwdriver technique all the way home!
John Z

This thread was discussed between 13/11/2006 and 15/11/2006

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