'06 Highlander Immobilizer trouble

[switchroom_bob]

Has anyone had trouble with the engine immobilizer on their Highlander? This has happened twice in the past two weeks. The key is inserted, but the red security led continues to flash. You cannot turn the ignition switch. After a period of time, you can put the key in, the led quits flashing, and you can turn the ignition switch. I have not tried a different key, which I will try next, if & when this happens. We have been in contact with the service dept. at our dealership. They think there may be trouble with the steeringwheel lock mechinism. We will be taking it in to have this resolved, but I had not seen this type of trouble reported here on tundra solutions.
This Highlander was bought new in Oct. '06. Only has 2,250 miles on it.
My wife & I like this vehicle very much. I was suprised to have this type of trouble.
Thank-you!

[LifeTech]

I felt it is the steering lock mech too.

When my 06 was new it felt very tight it gave me the same symptom ...just once. I scratched my head. and took a close look at what I was doing and reinserted the key and became observant of my starting the H/L.


My 06, purchased this last Spring has approx 5300k and has loosened up a bit. Including the wheel lock mech. Never had that happen again.

Good luck

LT