stepuptata

iTrader: (11)

I there....I got a 2000 SS with auto and just hit 20,000 miles. Today I drove the car and when I went to stop and park...The key turns off the car and clicks past the Ignition On position but will not turn to release from column. It feels spungy and will not force back to release. I tried shaking the wheels left and right and placing shifter from park to drive and back to park many times but no luck
Any suggestions would be great
Thanks!!

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

Do you have an auto trans?

stepuptata

iTrader: (11)

yes automatic

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

First culprit would be the shifter interlock that protects you from taking the key out when the car isn't in park. I'd try wiggling your shifter to see if that helps. If not, you might search for threads on that interlock.

Save the manuals. They are a dying breed.

stepuptata

iTrader: (11)

No luck wiggling
Even took it out it
No key pull out. When in park and turn key it locks rod but still doesn't release

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

Not sure what that means, but its most likely either the interlock mechanism somewhere (in the column or at the shifter) or a worn key.

With 20K miles, a worn key would not be surprising if it was the key used most of the time. You can usually get a worn key to release by wiggling it as you turn to the open position.

JRENIGAR

iTrader: (37)

Tunblers in lock might be stuck. Try spraying some penetration oil in the lock above and below the key.

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

^ This would wash out the lubrication that is there and will lead to problems down the road. At that point, it would be better to open the column and replace the while cylinder.

JRENIGAR

iTrader: (37)

I was thinking it needed replaced anyways. Maybe this would atleast get the key out, although, Im not sure if thats necessary to remove the lock? Maybe wash the oil out afterwards with electrical contact cleaner and then use some graphite spray to relube the lock and tumblers.

stepuptata

iTrader: (11)

I can get the key out when I force to lock position
The key goes in fine and turns easily and starts just fine
I don't believe it's the tumbler with such low miles
I have had I over 75 GM cars in 25 years and never seen thus before

wssix99

iTrader: (5)

Now try another key and see if it happens. This has happened to me on similar columns on two different GM cars. I've never had a key last me more than 25-35K miles with a lot of city driving. (Lot's of putting the key in/out.)

The key has to be a perfect fit not only for turning to the ON position but also to the OFF position. This is due to the mechanism in the cylinder that keeps the key captive when you turn the ignition on.

If you don't have another key, you will need to have a dealer punch a new one for you as a copy will just inherit the worn spots on the key.

stepuptata

iTrader: (11)

Spare key does the same
No difference

stepuptata

iTrader: (11)

Sprayed heavily with wd40
It finally freed up and works perfectly.
Followed up with Graphite grease