My key would also not turn past ACC to Lock position or Start on my 2001 RX300. I probably caused the fault when I turned off the car with the transmission in Drive vice Park - I immediately moved it to Park and removed the key. I did not realize the ignition was not full turned to Lock (the turn - push - remove sequence for key removal has become a "second nature" vice a deliberate act!)
I googled the problem after being towed to the dealership and removing the battery terminal lead (since in the ACC position everything is powered up). This forum was the first place I found an answer.
I tried the Hammer and Screwdriver technique: A flat blade screwdriver - similar size to the key inserted in the key slot and given a few gentle hammer taps worked the first try. The screwdriver tip was snug after the tapping and required just a little pull to remove. My key went in next and everything worked great! (Note I also reconnected the battery to prior to trying this to ensure the interlocks of the brake and gear shift would not interfere).
The next step was simply to join this forum and pass along my thanks -
THANKS for the great tip, and SPECIAL THANKS to Bill for his advice.
