Will replacing key using VIN help with ignition sticking?

Asked by Tapestry Feb 07, 2015 at 02:10 PM about the 2005 Saturn VUE

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My 2005 Saturn Vue has a "sticky" ignition problem. Key often just won't turn (like it
catches) or else it won't release.  While nit covered by ignition recall, the mechanic at
certified Saturn service said the key might be worn down. He advises getting a new key
made using the VIN ($45 + 12).  Has anyone else done this and did it work?

6 Answers

95

Check for recall. GM had a major recall on ignition switches. I had the same issue with a Pontiac Sunfire and it was covered under a recall.

1 people found this helpful.
895

Why not just change this ignition switch out . Considering the year of the vehicle you switch is probably worn out. It was not made to last for ever you know. Things were not made or designed simple at that time. I like the new cars that use a push button. My mom use to have a golf cart that when she pushed on the gas pedal it would start up.

2 people found this helpful.
30

No, a new key won't help.Had the same issue with my 2007 Vue. This sticky ignitions are a known Saturn problem but it has yet to be recalled. Cost me $600 to put in a new one as eventually the key just wouldn't turn and it had to be towed to a GM place

3 people found this helpful.
40

Have a saturn vue hybrid-2007. Same issue with keys. GMC dealer just said my vin number named for free replacement of ignition cylinder and keys. They do not alert you because not technically a safety recall. check with your GMC dealer on this.

4 people found this helpful.
20

My experience is that the softer key will wear away. My keys would work sporadically. Called at Peter ballet gm in duncan bc.code plus key cut was 13 bucks. The tumblers rarely fail in my opinion and changing the tumblers doesn't help usually. That's a cash grab. The old (worked with some effort sometimes. The new worked like new. Call a few gm dealers till you find an honest one.

2 people found this helpful.
30

Saturn keys are made of softer materials than Chevy keys with the same blanks -- so the keys wear. I have a 2007 Saturn Vue with 200K miles and have had to replace the keys 3-4 times with Factory Keys cut at a Dealer. I tried other key shops but they all seem to use Chevy key blanks (which look similar), however Chevy key blanks will not work in a Saturn ignition (don't know why I suspect they are slightly thicker).

3 people found this helpful.

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