Car will not start

[Bryan]

Went to the store and when I came back out the steering wheel lock would not disengage. So I tried for a little bit and the key broke off in the ignition (original key by the way) also the Turing **** (sorry not sure what its called, but its that black part you stick you key into) now actually spins freely from the ignition itself. So I actually was able to get the car to start. (stuck the rest of the key in and got it to start).

But now I went out tonight to go work, tried to start it and nothing. I can hear the fuel pump making its 'whirring' sound, and all the dash instruments come on, battery is not dead, and the starter was just replaced a month ago. What could the problem possibly be?

EDIT: Just a heads up. When I turn the key (screwdriver), the fuel pump comes in and the instrument panel lights up, but all I get is a click when I try and start it. I was able to get the car to start 3 times after it broke. Going to work, coming home and stopping at a store. I talked with my local Mechanic and he told me that maybe since its really cold around where I am it may have frozen up and a simple tap on the starter may free it up.

 

[TopGunnYFZ]

****** remand starter n solenoid or shotty wiring/connections, if you're sure the battery is good.

 

[Bryan]

UPDATE: Car just started this afternoon after the temperature has risen to a warm enough point. Started right up not a single problem. It had dropped to the low teens the other night. So hopefully that's the problem.

 

[rubydist]

loose wire or solenoid problem would be my guess.

For future readers, when the key does not want to turn, you need to wiggle the steering wheel side to side while attempting to turn the key. (If the steering wheel locks with side pressure on it, it can put enough force on the lock cylinder that you will not be able to turn the key until you release the force by turning the steering wheel.) For some reason, this is more of an issue on Fords than on other makes.

 

[1320n2oSHO]

loose wire or solenoid problem would be my guess.

For future readers, when the key does not want to turn, you need to wiggle the steering wheel side to side while attempting to turn the key. (If the steering wheel locks with side pressure on it, it can put enough force on the lock cylinder that you will not be able to turn the key until you release the force by turning the steering wheel.) For some reason, this is more of an issue on Fords than on other makes.

This. Also if you hear a click MOST LIKELY a dead battery even if the lights come on(so assure your self the batt. is good) or the solenoid is bad on the starter

 

[Bryan]

I tried to jump it with a jump pack and it would not start. I also did try and wiggle the wheel but the key was so worn out it simply snapped I guess. Car is going into the shop Monday to get the ignition completely replaced. I will have the starter and solenoid checked.