1997 Grand Am SE Ignition Key Stuck

[themightythor]

Hi all
I bought a 1997 Grand AM SE. Had it for a few days, got some new tires on it and alignment. Mechanic used a spare key, when i got home, couldnt turn the key back to off. It stays in the position prior to start and wont turn to off. how do you fix something like this? I had to disconnect the battery to turn the power off the car. I cant seem to jiggle the key back, this is the first time the spare key was used. I have always used the regular GM key and had no problems. Is this a common problem with this vehicle? please advise.

[Bestia]

I had the same problem a couple of years ago on my 97 GA GT. I had to bring it to the dealer and have a new ignition switch assembly installed. I can always dig up the bill and see exactly what was involved and how much it cost. I'm thinking around $200 cdn.

[ShadeTree69]

My 96 GT has a small cover in the center of the lower steering column cover that i pried out. If you look inside the hole you'll see a solinoid with a push button on the lower part. i use my finger to push up on the solinoid and turn the key at the same time and out comes my non-chip .99 cent key. Beats $200.00 for a new key and cylinder from GM. Hope this helps.