[WhiteStallion2005]

Guys i'm new to the group and already a believer. My problem is similar but not exact to several on here. So for a couple of weeks i put the key in the ignition and it seems "locked" although the steering wheel is not locked. If i jiggle it and work it then it will turn over and everything is good until the next time it happens. This is a pretty basic 05 RAM, i havent had any problems until now. So last night it really went on the fritz. First, the steering wheel did actually lock and the wheels are BARELY turned to the right while the steering wheel is locked to the left (as in the ram horns are facing the passenger door, how this happened i dont know) Of course the ignition won't turn now for anything. It doesnt matter if I jiggle it. Well, it actually DID turn but it seemed like it shorted or something wierd because the truck didnt start but the lights blinked. The dome light blinked and the dash lights were erratic. I disconnected the battery cable and removed some fuses and reseated them, no change. So many of you guys have had similar issues only to have the dealership or mechanics make you change a dozen parts for no success. I simply can't afford that. I had my boss at work hook up his jeep with jumper cables in the event that it could be my battery but that didnt help either. I know these posts should be shorter but i'm just trying to give as much info as possible. Thanks for whatever you can do friends.

 

[jacksonsnorth]

All the info you give tells me someone may have had the column apart on your Ram. Did you do a carfax on the truck before buying it? This happened to a buddy of mine a few years ago with a vehicle he bought at auction to resell. It turned out the vehicle was a theft recovery and it had the switch popped. It seems someone had bought it from the insurance company, rebuilt it, and off to the auction. In rebuilding it they had put the switch in wrong and it bound up all the time. Soo. May want to check into that possibility. Good luck and also, Glad to have you aboard the Z.

 

[WhiteStallion2005]

no, i bought it brand new. but thanks. thats why its a boggle.

 

[GTyankee]

these are just suggestions of course

wiggle the steering wheel as you try to turn the ignition
you might also wiggle the shifter a bit, it may not be all the way in the correct position

if you belong to AAA club, after call to AAA, they will call a locksmith for you

 

[WhiteStallion2005]

i did that too. i'm pretty sure that the shifter is in the right position, the other thing is that before the steering wheel locked I couldn't put it in neutral. it wouldnt come out of park

 

[jacksonsnorth]

Man this is a tough one. i wish you luck, i have nothing else to offer other than the story of my buddy. I hope someone helps you out sooner than later. I am gonna keep an eye on this one. Good luck again man.