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Acura (Honda) TL L5-2451cc 2.5L SOHC MFI (1997)08 · Starting and Charging
08 · Electrical

Starting System - Can't Turn Key In Ignition Switch (Ignition Switch Lock Cylinder)

Make
Acura (Honda)
Model
TL
Engine
L5-2451cc 2.5L SOHC MFI
Year
1997
Section
Ignition Switch Lock Cylinder › Technical Service Bulletins › Starting System - Can't Turn Key In Ignition Switch
Starting and ChargingStarting System - Can't Turn Key In Ignition Switch
Starting System - Can't Turn Key In Ignition Switch (Ignition Switch Lock Cylinder) – Acura TL L5-2451cc 2.5L SOHC MFI (1997)

Ignition Switch Lock Cylinder: Technical Service Bulletins
Starting System - Can't Turn Key In Ignition Switch

Can't Turn Ignition Switch? Check for Locked Steering

Got a service client complaining he or she can't turn the ignition switch to start the engine? The reason could just be the steering column lock pin is
engaged with the front wheels turned. Here's what typically happens:

Some folks use the steering wheel to help support themselves while climbing in or out of the vehicle. It's very common among elderly or disabled
drivers. Doing this, though, turns the front wheels, which twists the tires against the ground, and applies torque to the steering column. With the ignition
switch in LOCK (0), the steering column lock pin is engaged. But the applied torque on the steering column binds the lock pin, making it tough to turn
the ignition switch. The ignition switch won't turn to ON (II) if the lock pin isn't disengaged from the steering column.

Tell your client there's nothing wrong with the ignition switch itself. All he or she needs to do is turn the steering wheel from side to side while turning
the switch. This usually releases the lock pin so the engine can be started. In some cases, though, your client may need to give a good tug on the wheel.
This could easily happen when parking on a hill and the wheels are turned sharply before the engine is shut off. This problem is common to all Acura
models, but on '05-06 RLs, it could be misunderstood as a keyless access problem.

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Parts & tools for this job For 1997 Acura TL 2.5L

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