I own a 2000 Dodge Grand Caravan. Several days ago, my...

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Answer by KR
Submitted on 1/31/2006
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My steering wheel also locked on my 2000 Dodge Caravan. I could not get it unlocked or turn the key to turn the ignition on. The owners manual said to turn the wheel to the left or right and it should unlock. I had to get it towed to a dealership. They charged 144.10 to replace the ignition lock cylinder, 198.00 for two hours of labour and 19.80 for shop supplies. (Canadian dollars) This seems like an unusually high amount for a repair that should never have happened in the first place. Any chance this could be a defect that Dodge should look in to, it seems to have happened to a number of Dodge Caravan owners according to this FAQS! Does anyone know the process to submit a concern about this?

Answer by pmh
Submitted on 2/13/2006
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I own a 1999 Chrysler Town and Country and have had the problem where the key inserts fine and can easily be removed, however, it will not turn. At times, we have turned the steering wheel either right or left and then the key will turn and sometimes this doesn't work at all. It is a very sporadic problem. Of course, it wouldn't start yesterday following a foot of snow and this car was parked at the end of the driveway and it needed moved in order to get any other cars out. Long story short the locksmith was called and he did get it started and he told us this is common with this type of vehicle - stating he has seen it "many times". Wed. is the trip to the dealer who states that none of it will be covered under any warranty. The car has 60,000 miles on it. FRUSTRATING!

Answer by ryple
Submitted on 5/16/2006
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I found myself in this forum because it is actually the SECOND time this has happened to my 2000 GC. The first time, it wasn't the ignition cylinder, it was the keys. The dealer cut me a couple of new keys, and they worked like a charm. (You have to use the dealer so they can cut by the (not a chewed up old key, but the) barcode numeric sequence your car came with{a little baggy when you got your new keys when car was purchased, they tell you to keep the #--Maybe the dealer can get the code from the VIN #)} Anyway, there's something about the way the keys are soft or something, or the way the cylinder chews them up, anyway, I'm hoping that's all I'll have to do again! I have tried two separate times---sometimes just waiting does the trick, this time it didn't! ARGHH----- I feel your pain!@

Answer by Chaz
Submitted on 6/25/2006
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2000 Caravan: Key won't turn. Insert the Ikey then lightly tap the key in the slot with the heel of your hand, shoe, screw driver handle, hammer (or like). It may take several attempts. It helps if a very small bit of WD40 or similar lubricant has been sprayed into the key-slot. After tapping, do not remove, turn. If that didn't work, continue tapping and trying. When mine first freed, it was tricky, but after repeating the process 6-8 or so times, it began working smoothly. Don't overdo WD40, as it will make a drippy black mess. Then use a can of compressed air (like used to blow dust out of keyboards) to blow the excess WD40 out of the slot, so that your key is not a black oily mess after use. Pack a paper towel around the slot and cylinder before blowing, so that you don't blow the WD40 everywhere. Wipe and repeat until things are clean and there is no excess WD40.

Answer by Greg
Submitted on 10/28/2006
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Why don't all of you Guys blast Chrysler & Dodge Headquarters with letters about the ignition cylinder problem? We have a 98 Dodge Grand Caravan, and this is the 3rd time we have had to replace the ignition cylinder. In the past, cars used to go to the junk yard with the ORIGINAL CYLINDER still working! What's happening with the quality of American cars??? That's why imports are winning the whole market and American workers are losing their jobs. I've got a tip that might work for you.... Try parking your vehicle with the front wheels straight (not turned), and BEFORE you shift into PARK, depress the Emergency Brake. That way there'll be less stress on the cylinder pin that locks your steering. This is our first and last Dodge product EVER!!!!

Answer by CADreamOn
Submitted on 11/25/2006
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I have had the same ignition switch problems in my '99 GC. Stuck key (couldn't remove it), unable to turn the key, etc. Sometimes wiggling the steering wheel back and forth worked. Other times, it hasn't worked. Today, I went out to start the car and the battery appeared dead. When I got a jump, the engine was making a funny noise. I turned off the ignition and the starter motor continued to attempt to start the car. When I turned the key to start again, the engine started, but the noise continued. I now believe I have a short in the ignition switch that keeps the starter motor running, even while the engine is running. The only way I could stop the starter motor from continuing to run was to disconnect the battery. If you're having problems with your GC ignition switch, I suggest you get it fixed before you encounter problems like mine.

Answer by Coop
Submitted on 3/8/2007
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In reference to the ignition key situation: had this happen to me once as well. I was in a parking lot and couldn't get the key to turn for love nor money. If turning the steering wheel doesn't work, here's what a Dodge mechanic friend told me: Hit the key DIRECTLY into the ignition three times. You can use the heel of your hand if you need to. Make sure you hit it STRAIGHT IN!!! If you hit it at an angle you could break they key off inside the ignition and then you're really stuck!!! This has always solved the problem for me. We've got a 2000 that I think has recently topped 100K. After hearing some of the transmission horror stories I think it might be time to get rid of this one before anything serious happens!!!

Answer by Anthony
Submitted on 7/18/2007
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My ignition switch on my 1999 Dodge Grand Caravan went out today. My wife went to the mall and I was at work. She called and told me what was going on. I told her to turn the wheel left or right. Nothing. Security gave it a try. Nothing. They called a tow truck and I told my wife no. I had to get off of work, go to the van, and try myself. Nothing. Called the Dodge dealer, spoke with service. He said I had a bad ignition. I asked if there was anything I could do. HE SAID: Tap the key on end and it may unjam the switch. I DID and IT WORKED. Drove the van home and took the key out. Tried to start it....NOTHING. Tapped it again and drove it to the dealer. I am waiting on the price tag TOMORROW.

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Question by JC
Submitted on 7/24/2003
Related FAQ: rec.autos.makers.chrysler FAQ, Part 1/6
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I own a 2000 Dodge Grand Caravan. Several days ago, my ignition key got stuck in the ignition and I can't take it out. It's not in the On or Radio On position. It's in the position I used to take it out every time. But now, it's stuck. I wonder if there is something I can do or do I have to take it to a dealer to have it done.

Answer by Alli
Submitted on 7/29/2003
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The same thing happened to me. It ended up costing me over $300 to fix as my caravan had to be towed in to have the ignition replaced. At first the key got stuck in and then I couldn't get it in to start it. I tried a locksmith who told me he's seen dozens of these. Mine is also a 2000. I'm going to contact Dodge to see what they'll do. Good luck.

Answer by Kim
Submitted on 8/22/2003
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I actually couldn't turn the ignition switch on my 2000 Grand Caravan. The key went in but it wouldn't turn. I ended up having to get it towed to the dealership. Luckily it was still under warranty.

Answer by scott eicklebery
Submitted on 9/7/2003
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the check engine light is always on because of the fuel vapor leak, is this common if so how do you fix it? my grand caravan is a 2001 model.

Answer by Brian
Submitted on 10/3/2003
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check the gas cap

Answer by kathleen
Submitted on 10/6/2003
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I also could not get my ignition to turn once the key was in. Had to have it replaced at about $200.

Answer by Azoren
Submitted on 5/19/2004
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I have a Dodge Caravan 2000 Went to start it this morning and the ignition key jammed and would not turn to start, after playing with it for 5 minutes it finally turned and I was able to drive to the dealer ship to repair it. (Chrysler will not cover this part unless vehicle is still under original manufactures warranty) There are many other case that are not documented.

Answer by Carol T.
Submitted on 6/3/2004
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I own a 2000 Dodge Grand Caravan. I have no ignition problem, however mine slips out of drive into neutral while I'm driving usually at 35 miles per hr. Someone help me! It has been in the shop over 5 times. I 've been driving this car for a year. The dealership doesn't seem to be concerned for my safety. Help somebody!!!!!

Answer by KB
Submitted on 6/30/2004
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I had a similar transmission problem with my 2000 GC when it hit about 40,000 miles a couple of years ago and had to have it fixed at the dealer for about $600. Last year, my wife's cousin (a Ford dealer who didn't know about the problem that I had with my GC) said that he used to have a side business where he would buy GCs cheap when their transmissions started to go out at around 40,000 miles, have a mechanic change a $75 part, then resell the GCs. Evidently, the transmission situation is quite common.

Answer by Corsairpi
Submitted on 7/5/2004
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I suggest you try to move the steering wheel left or right a little, then try the key removal or start, as appropriate. This has worked for me in like situations.

Answer by NC Vacation
Submitted on 7/12/2004
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I just had the same ignition problem on my 2000 Caravan last week. We were packed to go on vacation and it would not turn. No matter what I tried (steering wheel, etc.), nothing worked. The tow truck guy and the repair people couldn't get it to turn. They had to replace the ignition lock cylinder. That price of that part was $98.60 My total cost was $300.00.

Answer by RJ
Submitted on 8/7/2004
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I also own a 2000 Dodge Caravan. Today I had the same thing happen as several other van owners on this web site. The key would slide in to the ignition, but would not turn. I have a feeling Chrysler will not cover it. Does anyone have any useful information in terms of getting Chrysler to fix their problem?

Answer by TexAnn
Submitted on 9/29/2004
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I've had to replace my ignition cylinder in my 1998 Grand Caravan TWICE!

Answer by DEVIL DOG
Submitted on 10/13/2004
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i JUST BOUGHT A 2000 GC IS THIS A REAL COMMON PROBLEM?

Answer by TP
Submitted on 10/13/2004
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Same thing happened me. Mine has 47900 miles not under warranty. This part seems defective

Answer by D Fries
Submitted on 10/17/2004
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The problem is with the key/lock design. When inserting the key upside-down into a warn lock a pin that normally rest on the bottom (smooth side) of the key get caught in the teeth of the key making it impossible to pull the key out. Trying to force the key to turn or pull out will damage the lock. Just call a locksmith and spend the $45 to watch him slide a slim flat tool into the lock to release the pin and allow the key to be removed.

Answer by baratonebobby
Submitted on 12/28/2004
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Just had my Ignition Cylinder replaced now I get fast chimes when I open the driver side door and the manual lock will not work with the door open. Do I need a new ignition switch?

Answer by Debby
Submitted on 1/2/2005
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My 2000 Caravan is doing the same thing. Key will not turn the ignition. I really don't want to put any money into it to fix it, it is starting to nickle and dime me. If I could get it started today I would trade it in. Which is what I plan on doing a.s.a.p....especially after reading all this comments.

Answer by tadams
Submitted on 1/4/2005
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I have a 1999 GC and the key/ignition cylinder has been a problem since 60K miles. Per a Glendale, CA. dealership, if the key will not turn, hit it with a hammer a couple of times (medium force)into the ignition and retry to start the van. If lucky enough to get the van started, drive to your closest dealership and paid $300 to $400 for a NEW cylinder to be installed! :(

Answer by Indy Fixed it
Submitted on 1/23/2005
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Have a 98 Grand Caravan ES and the key would not turn in the igntion. Called towing service. Towing dude, before I told him I owned a chrysler, told me to jiggle the steering wheel. If that didn't work, then put the key in the igntion, take a hammer, pound several hard times and then turn. Bada Bang bada bing... It turned.. I turned the ignition off, then tried to start again.. oops.. it stuck again.. A few more bada bings.. turned again... Wife said, "all time low, have to drive around with hammer in the car to start the car..." taking to dealer to get fixed.

Answer by dgdg
Submitted on 1/27/2005
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I have a 1999 Grand Caravan and the ignition would not turn to start (even trying to move the steering wheel right or left, easy or hard, tried tried pulling the key out just a hair while trying to turn it on). Nothing worked. I called a locksmith who came out to my home and replaced the ignition lock cyclinder for less than $100 (thats less than $100 for part and labor). Took him 15 to 20 minutes. He keyed it to my keys. I called the dealer before I called the locksmith and they wanted about $400.

Answer by Chrysler T&C
Submitted on 3/4/2005
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I have also had ignition switch lock up. Cleared it by pressing brake pedal while turning key. Quite iritated.

Answer by 1998 GC owner
Submitted on 4/1/2005
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So what you are saying is all GC's have a tranny problem at some point?? Mine went out while on the free way the other day. We have had our van about 35 days and seeing that it was bought at a used car lot with out a warrenty we now get to pay $1300 to have it fixed.

Answer by poop
Submitted on 4/24/2005
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i am soooo cool

Answer by DessiGetz_33
Submitted on 4/28/2005
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I own a 2000 caravan and YES the same thing happened to me! the key got stuck and I couldn't get it out! here I had to replace the tumbler it cost me $100 now my back window will not open! and that is going to cost me $150 and now we are replacing the input sensor for the Transmission this Van is nickel & dimeing us to death now that there is no Warranty! well our next minivan is DEFINITELY NOT GOING TO BE A DODGE!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer by pam
Submitted on 6/25/2005
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question... my 1999 caravan ac worked great blowing cold air very well. 10 min later went to go some where started the van and the ac light comes on and the engine makes the pull sound but no air blower at all and now ck engine light is on any idea?? goes to shop mon but would like to have a bit of info.

Answer by Bayou Bengal
Submitted on 7/11/2005
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July 8, 2005. Same type ignition problem. Neither set of keys would turn it on. AAA sent locksmith. He put WE 40 in ignition and then, using a key and a vise grip, he put key in and turned it on. It works now, but with only one side of one key. Locksmith said it was about a $300 job to replace it. No longer under warranty :( Will no doubt have to replace it soon. Never had this problem with any of 31 previous (or current) vehicles. Wish there was an easier fix than replacing.

Answer by harry
Submitted on 7/13/2005
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My 2000 Grand Caravan engine light stays on, is locked in second gear and the speedo meter does not work. What is wrong.

Answer by Don
Submitted on 7/14/2005
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I know of 4 owners of Dodge Caravans that have had to have the ignition lock cylinders replaced. 3 of the 4 were in my family. I think this problem is a little more than a coincidence. Called the help line at Chrysler but NO help. Out of warranty. It's obvious they have a problem they don't wish to address. Shame on them.

Answer by Lon
Submitted on 7/31/2005
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Ignition key would not turn in my 2000 Plymouth Voyager. 1st time, locksmith turned wheel to the far right to release. It has reoccurred twice in the past week - the 2nd time his idea worked. Now it's locked again and won't release so must have towed. I suspect ignition will require replacing. I'm told this is a common problem with the Caravan & Voyager. It must be a design problem that Chrysler should pay for.

Answer by Rayman40
Submitted on 8/16/2005
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I had the same stinkin' ignition problem, except I have a 2002 Caravan. Put the key in, wouldn't turn, no matter how hard I tried. Tow truck operator laughed and said "Chrysler, right?" Guess he's had a few. Cylinder replaced, cost $98 plus labor. Got out for just over $200. But I went to a local guy, and not the dealership. I would NEVER go to the dealership.

Answer by John
Submitted on 9/21/2005
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I have a 1998 Caravan and also have the ignition problem. This has been going on for 3 years now. It only happends when we are in a rush! usually we just wait a few minutes and then it will work. Sometimes I just mess with it for a little while and it will work also. I guess I better look into just getting it fixed.

Answer by NewGuy24
Submitted on 11/7/2005
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Put the key in the ignition and lightly tap the key with a hammer. It works. A tow truck driver showed me this when he came to tow my van in. It is a big headache to not be able to start your car with a key. You need to have the hammer with you at all times.

Answer by Aunt P
Submitted on 12/30/2005
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I own a 2002 Grand Caravan Sport. A few days ago we put the key in the ignition and it would not turn, the steering wheel was not locked and the brake peddle was very stiff. I called Chrysler and they told me to try tapping the key (while in the ignition) with a hammer and try starting it. This didn't work and we ended up towing it to the dealer. They had to replace the ignition cylinder - cost to me was $295.00 - they said my warranty ran out 6 months ago???????

Answer by Fatherof3
Submitted on 1/31/2006
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For all of you who have the problem with not being able to turn the key in Caravans here is what I was told by a tech. Take a hammer and hit the top of the key while it is in the ignition. You really have to crack it, so do not be shy. This happened to me and the tech showed me the trick. He also said that a shot of WD-40 would help extend the life and not require replacement. If you do not have a hammer, and get stuck, try your shoe. It worked for me.