Fiddly ignition switch and key removal

[zed4]

I’m finding getting the key in, and in particular out, of the ignition a right pain in my Caterham. Any suggestions to make it easier or for an alternative? Maybe keyless start?

I can usually get the key in easily enough, but once it’s been turned, the immobiliser fob and the petrol cap key seem to get caught up behind the dashboard and it makes it a right pain to switch the engine off and remove the key! Anyone else come across this?

BTW, it's a 2004 Caterham Roadsport 140 with the 1.8 K Series.

[RobGT81]

I used to impale my knee on it. I removed the barrel and fitted an ignition switch and push button start on the dash. No more key.

[framerateuk]

Mine actually came without a functioning ignition barrel and had a flick switch mounted on the dash to turn on the ignition instead.

I found it a bit of a security risk when parked up so now I have a fully working key/immobilizer and the hole in the dash left by the switch was replaced by a 12v charger

So yeah, what you're looking to do is definitely possible!

[Steve Campbell]

You could try putting the ignition key, alarm fob and petrol cap key on separate rings and attach them to a small carabiner. They only cost ~ £2..might be worth trying. The other keys / stuff slide away from ignition key & stay away. They might then dangle too low.....but at least won't get stuck.

If you use 2 small carabiners together, you can also use one to hook on your jeans when you are out of the car...and saves that awful moment we've all done of getting in, buckling up, only to find the keys are firmly stuck in your pocket :-)