sticking ignition key

I have read many posts in here regarding the ignition key sticking and not being able to turn to start the engine. Apparently this seems to be due to an inferior quality ignition switch.

My problem is a bit different. The key works fine and I can start the engine with no problem. However, when I shut the engine off I cannot remove the key from the ignition switch. I have had some luck by repeatedly placing the transmission (automatic) in different gears and then back into park and eventually the key releases from the cylinder.

I know that generally a key cannot be removed from the switch while the transmission is in gear and that the transmission must be in park and the engine turned off for the key to be able to be removed. What device controls this? What signals the switch to allow the cylinder to release the key?

Finally, is there a simple fix or is this the start of a bigger problem?

Well, I suffered from this exact problem. We ended up having to replace the ignition lock. The lock cost me $99 at the ford dealership and I had a locksmith replace for $132. I believe the dealership wanted way more to replace.

Hope you resolved this since I see it is an older post.

I had the same problem w/ Grand Am. I took apart the shifter and found that is has an electrical component that if it falils the key will not come out of the ignition. The replacement cost of the part was 178$ so i jumped the wire so that the key could be removed. Only prpblem with this fix is the key can be removed in any gear, not just park as the designer planned for.

Don't know if this helps anyone or not, but have a 96 camaro , floor shift. Key could not come to lock position from off position to remove key. Read and finally found on internet forum. Removed the console, (only the two screws under the coin holder ) and disconnected the little light for the shifter so I could get to it. Then sprayed wd forty on the lock solenoid, and the cable and anything in there that looked like it could stand lube. It took care of it. Had read where a fellow had ordered a new shift control from gm and discovered this fix on internet somewhere.. It worked for him and it worked for me .. Good luck