Key Stuck! HELP

[alphabakada]

Revised earlier post and added larger photos as requested.

[pharm_rodeo]

I will confirm that this will resolve the OP's issue b/c I just got done doing it. Just be careful when removing the lock collar from the adjuster b/c it's pretty flimsy. Actually, it takes more time removing the console stuff then adjusting the cable.

[etonrifle]

I figure this one has already been put to bed but if I can help someone else having similar problems then so be it.
When the key is stuck and will not come out of the ignition, take off the 5 screws holding the plastic around the steering column.
Then open it up and look above the area where the key is and towards your dashboard.
Press the button on your gear shifter repeatedly you will see a white colored block moving back and forward, get a screwdriver behind it and gently lever it towards the steering wheel and then turn the key.
This worked for me until I could get a permanent fix for it.

[chiefnslo]

i found the problem... the cable that connects the ignition to the shifter has a little white (color may vary) button that prevents the key from coming out. i think it might be some kind of safety switch, but i don't really know. anyway, all you have to do is take off the steering wheel cover. not hard just a couple of screws. the cover might be a little tricky to pop off but all i did was push the sides of the cover and it snaps apart. don't worry, it will snap back together. then you will have access to the cable and the button. grab the cable from the back of the ignition and give a little push. the button will then pop out and you will have your key. hope this helps.

[lucidinterval1]

I had the same problem of not being able to remove the key from my 96 Rodeo. Another symptom was that I was able to shift the gear shifter into gear without pressing on the brake pedal.

I removed the cover from the gear shifter (4 screws) and found that when you shift into park there is a blue disk that presses against a limit switch. I pressed a flat screwdriver against the limit switch to make contact and the key was then able to be removed. Maybe the contacts were oxidized and the electrical connection wasn't occurring. Now to shift into gear I need to press on the brake pedal and the key is no longer stuck.

Decided to post this because I have not found this solution anywhere on line. Good luck! ( Love my Rodeo!)