waterbug1999

iTrader: (3)

Sometimes, here lately, the damn key wont come out of the ignition. I have to run through the gears several times and it eventually comes out. Sometimes, it takes alot more times then others. Anyone have any clue where I should begin to trouble shoot? Thanks.

Luna

iTrader: (6)

Ive had this problem before. It was really my own fault. I would sometimes turn the car off before putting it in park (still in D) and then it locks the key in.

waterbug1999

iTrader: (3)

Wel, I know its in "P" for park..

bjamick

iTrader: (31)

have you ever put a key in that like lowes or someone cut for you??? bc i have had this same prob. but it fixed itself

waterbug1999

iTrader: (3)

Nope, its still the original as far as I know. Its been fine until here in the last week.

slowscott

iTrader: (8)

The little pins inside the ignition may have gotten bent. This happens when you try to start the car with the key only partially inserted.

waterbug1999

iTrader: (3)

Great, how to fix?

trackbird

iTrader: (4)

Locksmith or new lock cylinder.

There is a cable from the shifter to a locking mechanisim on the steering column (I'm guessing it didn't change on the 4th gen cars, I did a couple manual swaps on 3rd gens) that could be the problem, or the cable might be out of "adjustment" (not that I remember there being any adjustment on it). On the manual swap cars, we found that just cutting off the cable at the box would allow it to retract to a "release" position and then it wasn't an issue (I'm not suggesting cutting it as a fix, but you might pop the cable off of the shifter and wiggle it and see if the key releases, it will be the cable that runs forward off of the shift lever under the radio and you'll have to pull the console to do it).

Just my thoughts.

waterbug1999

iTrader: (3)

Cool, last week I just moved the car around in the garage and it took 10 minutes or so from Park to 1st, park to 1st and finally it came out. Took the car to work today and when I pulled in a parking spot, I only had to do it 2 times and it came out. So, i guess ill pop the console out and see if that cord has anything to do with it.. I get soooo damn tired of working on the car though!

If I disconnect that cord you are talking about, will I be able to pull the keys out while I am driving?

trackbird

iTrader: (4)

Based on my experience with the 3rd gens, there is a good chance (unless they've changed the operation of it, or the line gets "hung up" in the jacket and is out of position, you might try it and secure it in place with a clamp or something once you get it working).

One line goes through the floor and down to the trans, you're worried about the other one that stays in the car, that's the key release.