This is not the problem I have a chrysler crossfire and experienced the same problem there is some good news if it frequently stops working for no reason the problem is most likely the RCM module has a shortage in it I fixed my crossfire and 3 others buy repairing the RCM its easy and simple any question you can email me I can give you a easy walk through to fix the problem and avoid paying hundred at the dealership it shouldn't take no more than 15 minutes to fix DIY!!
I had the same problem. I had to replace the entire ignition module at my cost. It happens fast, first just sticks when turning, then a day or two later, it will lock. If you jiggle the steering wheel it will sometimes free the lock and you can turn the ignition. Just a poor design. The only way to get the ignition cylinder out is to turn the key to the on position (there are write ups on this on the internet). Most of the time that is not possible and you are stuck somewhere with no way to turn on your car. If you are able to do that do not turn the key off completely or it will probably never turn on again. Just leave it in the ACC setting until you figure out what you want to do. It is not that difficult to take the entire lock cylinder out and start the car with just the key tip that fits in the ignition slot (or a screwdriver if you have one). The only problem is that the key has a built in RFID sensor that needs to be within a few inches of the plastic piece around the key cylinder for the car to start, so even if you do that you have to find a place to stick the key to the dash right next to the ignition. Just take it to the dealer and have them fix it.
It is a very common problem and these wear out after use. A plastic actuator pushing a metal pin to unlock the key cylinder... it will be a replacement part and repair for Chrysler forever. At $525+ per repair it should be a recall, and it will happen to every crossfire owner. Mine went out at ~39,500 miles and I know it will again sometime in the car's life.
The other option is to drill out the steering wheel lock, much more difficult and extremely hard to get to under the dash. That would solve the problem forever, but most of us don't like dismantling our car's ignition and drilling into things that should not be taken apart.
Good Luck. Check out www.crossfireforum.org for other options, but everyone has had this problem.
Seems like a huge coincidence it stopped working at the same time it was visiting the dealership. I suggest you take it back and complain that they broke your seat.
You have nothing to lose and will probably get the fault diagnosed free and maybe more...
Engine sensor , ignition control sensor ! Is the vehicle check engine light on ? Do you have a scan tool to check engine sensor data ? Do you have a DVOM - digital volt ohm meter ? any sensor that is powered by the PCM - engine computers five volt reference voltage circuit . 5 volt reference or crankshaft postion sensor . Doing testing is the way to find the problem .Check out videos on ignition system testing .
You will need the key to unlock the steering so that you can remove the ignition housing. This is done as an anti theft measure. The only other way is to get a locksmith to unlock it for you, or break it.
