Ignition switch Problem

My 2001 Tacoma has a switch problem. After it is turned off, it does not want to turn on again without a lot of strong twisting and jiggling of the key. I thought it was a bad key but it does the same with my unused original second key. It seems to have something with the steering wheel lock as it most frequently works while I am turning the steering wheel while jiggling the key.
Any way to adjust the steering wheel lock mechanism? Other ideas?

 

i had something similar a while back and found out that my ignition switch had a "bad cylinder" and was causing the jiggling of the key worst every time. so either had to replace the switch or just have a locksmith remove the bad cylinder. i ended having it removed, i did not want to end up with two different keys for my taco.

 

Try some lube see if that helps .

I spray some in all the lock cylinders every few months

 

there are youtube videos that show you how to fix it.

the problem is the keyways inside the ignition have worn down and its not moving far enough to release as it should.

I took mine apart in my 99 and filed the brass keyways flush again with the fresh new cut from dealer key in position and after that it worked like brand new again, no more problems. if you use an old worn key, the keyways wont stick out the same and you might file more or less then you really need to, so I suggest you get a fresh new key to do this with

it only took me about an hour and a half total from taking the ignition out, fixing it, then to reinstalling it.

the key is use a dremel to grind the rivets flush so the face comes off without damage then use a punch to securely lock it back in place after its fixed

this is the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bxxwk9l9X9g

 

I just replaced mine and ended up with 2 keys one is larger easy to not confuse the 2

 

Next question: how do I remove the switch lock from the dash panel?

 

Gotta remove the trim pieces that are around the switch

 

lower panel under steering wheel comes off then the little trim cover pops off with a little coaxing

then put key in accessary position and look under the ignition housing, there is a small hole there, use a paper clip in there to push the pin in as you gently pull out on the key, when you get it, it comes right out.

its very easy once you do it but if you never did it before it can seem complicated but it isn't. lemme find the video for you

to reinstall it, it needs to be in accessary to allow that pin to move so it can go back in and lock in place. if not the pin will be locked sticking out and you cant reinsert the ignition switch.

EDIT - here is the video, its not a Tacoma and ignore the part about replacing the electrical switch in the back, but everything is close enough to ours to see what to do
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4oJhsUo9Wc