I need to know how to go about replacing the ignition switch and if I have to program the key. If the key needs to be programmed, can this be done by me? What steps need to be taken to replace the switch?

Thanks for your time

Are you replacing the ignition switch (the part the wires go to to start/supply power to run the car) or the ignition tumbler (the part the key goes into)?

I was told the ignition switch.

I started the car and it wouldn't come out of park. Then I shut it off and got it started again and it worked fine. Then I couldn't get the car to start at all and it wouldn't come out of park with the key in the power on position. So I am led to believe that the anti theft protection was activating and now allowing the car to come out of park which leads me to believe that it is the tumbler and not the ignition switch.

My logic is that it would be the tumbler because if the tumbler isn't getting a good read/connection on the chip in the key then the antitheft system will kick on...correct? I mean I would think...logically... that the key would still turn on the dashboard power, but not turn on the ignition/starter because it's misreading the code in the key chip. Am I misunderstanding the issue/

My dealership wants $326.00 to replace what is wrong, I don't know if I can do it cheaper and if it is going to be a big hassle with key programming and such.

The security system has nothing to do with the park lock. Most of them are controlled by the brake switch. When you press the brake pedal the park lock solenoid is released and you are allowed to shift the car into gear. I would be looking at the brake switch, the lock solenoid, and the wiring to figure out why it won't come out of park.

Unless the security light is on in the dash, I doubt that it's a lock cylinder issue. The key sticking in the ignition is a common symptom of a bad ignition switch, so I beleive that is your issue. Here is a write up from the Grand Prix forums on how to change the ignition switch, as the Regal and Grand Prix use the same switch.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=653340

Just wanted to know-do you have to remove the dash panels in order to reach the lower box on the ignition switch wiring harness? Doesn't mention this, but I don't know how you would get to it without doing this.

Just wanted to know-do you have to remove the dash panels in order to reach the lower box on the ignition switch wiring harness? Doesn't mention this, but I don't know how you would get to it without doing this.

I posted a reply at the thread below at the Pontiac Grand Prix forum.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=653340