so sometimes i get in my car to turn it on (obviously) and the key goes in the hole, but i can't seem to turn it. totally stuck. and then finally after screwing around with it for a few minutes itll let me turn the car on finally. what is the cause of this phenominon? doens't happen all the time but i'm afraid its gonna leave me stranded sometime soon if i don't nip it in the bud

bump

 

eh my car has been doing that for a year now i just think the key is getting worn down i'm too lazy to fix it so I just jiggle it till it cranks.

 

One really common thing is the steering wheel is slightly turned. If it's just slightly turned sometimes the wheel locks with a little tension on it and you won't be able to turn your key. If it happens again try turning your wheel slightly one way or the other and see if it helps. If not, there's a recall on some cobalts that have faulty ignition cylinders. The only way to fix it is replace it with the new design that don't fall apart like the original does.

I've sold many of the new designs for Cobalts, HHR's and Cadi CTS

 

Ignition lock cylinder recall...

 

Yup. It's Campaign 10256. But that recall is only for 08-09's.

 

Mine did that too from time to time and my 07 Camry does it more often than not. As he said, try turning the key while shaking the wheel left and right...usually does the trick.

 

WAIT THERE IS A RECALL! I can get my 08 fixed!!! woot!!!

 

ok ill try turning the wheel next time thanks all

 

Mine wasn't sticking but when I took my '09 in for the steering rack recall they did the warranty work on the ignition lock. I don't think they replace, it looks like they lubricated it or something.

 

I can check for any open recalls on your Cobalt if you PM me your VIN.

Thanks,
Laura
Chevrolet Customer Service