Key Stuck In Ignition Switch

[Fred Klintworth]

The key is stuck in my daughter's 2003 Monte Carlo ignition switch.

It can be turned to start the car, and to all positions except it won't turn to the key removal position -- it stops just before there.

Have tried shifting out of park, then back. Also tried jiggling and pulling on key. Tried WD-40. Tried disconnecting battery. Tried working wire into switch while jiggling and pulling on key. HAVE NOT YET TRIED SLEDGE HAMMER, BUT TEMPTED.

Anyone got a suggestion for what else to try, or know what could be causing this?

Thanks for your help!

[Fred Klintworth]

I got lucky this morning and got the key out by rapidly shifting the floor shift between Park and the other positions. After about 5 times, while jiggling the key and trying to turn it, it turned to the Off position and came out.

I expect though that the problem will repeat. Assuming it's related to the floor shifter, does anyone know how to adjust it slightly so the Park sensor will correctly detect when the shifter is in the Park position?

Thanks,

[richtazz]

There is a solenoid that is part of the floor shifter that wont allow key removal until the car is in park. Ask your daughter if she's spilled anything in the console, as soda/coffee residue will gum up the solenoid and it will not release the key. There should be an override button somewhere on the console that you push to get the key to release when the BTSI solenoid fails. On my Grand Prix, it's just to the right of the shifter under a little plastic cover.

[Fred Klintworth]

Richtazz: Thanks for the info.

I just went out and checked re the override button. Couldn't find one.

Several weeks ago it rained while the windows were down in her car. It took a week or so to get it dried out good. It could be that this resulted in some rust that is interfering with the solenoid.

I pulled the leather shifter boot while I was out there and looked down into shifter console. Didn't see a solenoid right offhand. But it if happens again, that's where I'll start.

Thanks again,

[rchjr]

hello i had the same problem whith my 03 monte i ended up haveing the shifter replaced under warrenty dealer told me they have been having trouble with those shifters. they said the part that in the shifter thare is a plastic part that connects the linkage .and it pops out of place from time to time or even breaks so the ignition thinks it is not in park . so key wont come out .

[Fred Klintworth]

rchjr: Thanks for the info. Now I'm wondering whether they will replace our Monte Carlo's shifter under warranty. Guess I'll call the local Chevy dealer and ask them.

[Fred Klintworth]

Just wanted to update this to help anyone else who may run into this problem.

I was able to get a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) that described how to fix this problem. The TSB says it covers 2002 thru 2005 Monte Carlos. I used it today and was able to fix the problerm.

If anyone has this problem you can email me at [email protected] and I'll send you a copy.